All Things Bail Bonds

Jail break…?

You don’t have many options. Most bondsmen will take a credit card, but generally want some security in case the person does not appear for court. A bond is usually at a cost of 10% of the bail amount in California, and bail is set according to a bail schedule according to the offense. The bondsman secures the balance (90%) with property, which you forfeit if your friend skips. You would have to put something on the line, some kind of property, house, car, etc.. And you had better really trust this person!

If he shows up in court, the bond is exonerated, but the 10% is not returned. You just aren’t on the hook for the other 90%.

Call the jail and ask what the bail is. They will have it in the computer.

Oh, I should add, if it’s a minor offense, or a DUI without bodily injury or high BAC, they might OR him (let him in the morning), especially if the jail is crowded. So it might be best to sit tight.

Wait a couple of days to see if the friend is released.

If your friend has a tendency to skip court, leave him there. Why put yourself on the hook for money that you don’t have?