Receiving a phone call informing you that someone you know has been arrested, or being the one who has to initiate that call, can be a stressful and frightening experience. At 24 Hour Online Bail Bonds, we understand that mistakes happen and believe people are innocent until proven guilty. Our Ohio bail bonds service has assisted individuals like you in navigating the intricacies of the bail bond process. We can handle many bail bonds and are available around the clock, seven days a week. Additionally, our bail bondsmen offer affordable, integrated online services for bail bond processes. Contact us today to learn more about bail bonds in Ohio.
What Are Ohio Bail Bonds?
This refers to a legally binding agreement granting the release of an individual held in custody on suspicion of committing a crime. The accused person, the court, a bail bonds company, and a cosigner enter into the written agreement. The co-signer ensures the defendant complies with the court’s bail release terms. Defendants must fulfill specific requirements, such as attending all mandatory classes, sessions, and court proceedings.
Furthermore, the agreement stipulates that the accused party will be responsible for a specified portion of the bail, while the bail bondsman will cover the remaining balance. In Ohio, anyone seeking bail bond services must pay a non-negotiable, non-refundable fee of 10% of the total bail amount. However, an Ohio bail bonds service may offer a reduced rate at its discretion.
Determining the Bail Amount
Bail is a sum of money that an individual must deposit with the local court to be released from custody after arrest. The court has the authority to determine the bail amount. The bail amount is based on various factors, including:
- Bail schedule—Ohio State has a bail schedule that includes a comprehensive list of offenses and their corresponding bail amounts. The court determines whether to set the bail amount as specified in the schedule or at a different level, either higher or lower
- The nature of the offense—More severe crimes are likely to result in higher bail amounts
- Your criminal record—If you have a prior conviction for the same offense, the bail amount will likely be higher than for a first-time offense
- Community ties—You may be eligible for a reduced bail amount or release on your own recognizance if you have a positive reputation in your community
- Your employment status determines your ability to make the required payment
Bail Conditions
If the court grants your request for bail release, it may impose additional terms. These could include:
- Obeying the rule of law
- Refraining from drug and alcohol use and enrolling in a rehabilitation program
- Avoiding specific places and individuals
- Seeking and retaining employment
- Complying with the curfew rules
- Adhering to travel restrictions
- Not carrying or owning a weapon
- House arrest while under monitoring
Failure to comply with these conditions may result in your arrest, bail revocation, being held in contempt of court, and an increase in the bail amount. The judge may also issue a warning. If you violate your bail conditions, such as contacting a crime victim and making threats, the court can revoke your bail, reducing your chances of being granted bail again.
Understanding the Bail Application Process
First, you should contact an Ohio bail bonds company. Choose a service that meets your needs, has no hidden charges, is affordable, and has positive reviews from previous clients. You can also ask for family, friends, or legal counsel recommendations.
Once you have selected the ideal Ohio bail bonds service, you can inquire about the following:
- The duration of the bail process
- The costs
- The collateral required
- The cosigner’s obligations
The bail bondsman will proceed to complete the necessary documentation, pay the bail amount, and facilitate the defendant’s release from jail.
Your Ohio bail bonds company may require you to provide collateral equivalent to the bail sum. You will also need to make a 10% down payment. Most bail bond services in Ohio typically charge this 10% as their standard fee. Collateral can include real estate, precious accessories, or vehicles.
When you decide to bail out an accused person, you should understand your rights and duties as a co-signer. Your obligations and rights include the following:
- Ensure that the accused attends all scheduled court hearings
- Ensuring the defendant complies with the law and adheres to the release conditions
- You must provide proof of both income and residency
- You have the authority to impose conditions that the accused must follow, such as mandatory participation in a drug rehabilitation program
- Your responsibility is to monitor and document all court hearings involving the defendant, ensure their presence at all proceedings, and track the case’s conclusion
- You have permission to revoke bail if you believe the defendant will fail to appear in court
If the cosigner decides to revoke the bail, you will have three options:
- Return to jail
- Secure a new cosigner
- Personally provide the necessary bail amount and collateral
Types of Bail
There are many different types of bail available. The type of bail you choose will depend on several factors, including:
- The type of crime
- The specified bail amount
- The accused’s current financial situation
Below are examples of bail options available in Ohio:
Surety Bonds
A surety bond, also called a bail bond, is the most popular type. Its widespread use stems from its accessibility in various amounts, especially when the accused cannot afford to pay their bail. The process involves a cosigner entering a contract with a licensed Ohio bail bonds company. Before the defendant’s release, the cosigner must pay a premium fee.
Cash Bail
In this case, the defendant pays the entire bail amount. Payment can be made using cash, credit card, traveler’s check, or check. Most people find cash bail too costly because it is both an unforeseen expenditure and a substantial sum to acquire. Individuals with the financial means to pay cash bail have their funds refunded after the legal proceedings, regardless of their conviction or innocence.
Property Bonds
The accused submits their property to court as collateral for bail. In this case, the court acquires a legal right to the property. If the defendant does not show up for court proceedings, the court can take the assets to cover for the bail that was forfeited.
Contact an Ohio Bail Bonds Company Near Me
If you have been arrested and need a reputable company to assist you in posting bail, contact us at 24 Hour Online Bail Bonds. Our bail bondsmen are ready to post your bail and guide you through the Ohio bail bonds process. Call us now at 800-930-8999 to schedule a free consultation and assess your situation.