When people are arrested in Oklahoma City, their first thought is typically to get out of jail and back to their families and jobs as soon as possible. Often this is a possibility if the judge grants bail. Unfortunately for many defendants, the amount of bail is too high to pay out of pocket. That’s why many people rely on the services of a bail bonding company. Read on to learn more about how to get Bail Bonds in Oklahoma City.
Step One: Find Out The Amount Of Bail
The defendant has to appear before the judge at an arraignment or bail hearing. At that time, the judge will decide whether or not to grant bail based on the severity of the crime. If the judge grants bail, he or she will typically determine the amount based on the offense and the defendant’s personal history. Someone who is considered a high flight risk, for example, may need to pay a higher amount of bail than another person with stable work and family history in the community.
Step Two: Contact A Bail Bonding Company
If the amount of bail is too high to pay out of pocket, then the defendant or a family member should contact a bail bonding company. It’s a good idea to choose a local business, like A Absolute Bail Bonds, because a local bail agent will have more knowledge of the court and jail system than someone from out of town. Other criteria to consider are fees and recommendations from trusted friends or family members.
Step Three: Pay The Agent’s Fee And Sign The Contract
Most agents charge a non-refundable fee of 10% of the total bail amount. In other words, if bail is set at $5,000, Bail Bonds in Oklahoma City will cost around $500. After the defendant or a family member pays the fee and signs the agent’s contract, the agent will pay the full amount of bail to the judge and receive the refund after the defendant goes to court. If the defendant skips the court date, not only will the judge issue an arrest warrant, but the bail bonding company may initiate legal proceedings to recover their lost funds.
