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What Happens If You Miss a Court Date After Posting Bail?

A brown and gold gavel in El Paso.

Have you or someone you know missed a court date after posting bail? Are you unsure of the consequences of your lack of appearance? Here, we will discuss what happens after you miss your court date following a bail bond.

At Freedom Bail Bonds, located in El Paso, TX, we are considered one of the top bail bonds companies in the southwest. If you need a reliable team following an arrest, you can count on us. Call us at (915) 877-9293 or contact us online to speak with a representative. 

Taking Immediate Action

Life can take an unexpected turn, and sometimes, those turns require you to miss a scheduled court date following bail bonds. Though the idea of missing the court date can be stressful, so long as you take immediate and appropriate actions, you won’t be penalized. Read below for those actions. 

  • Contact Your Bail Bond Attorney- Once you realize that you either might be late or could miss a court date, the first thing you must do is contact your attorney. The earlier you inform them of the conflict, the more rescheduling options will be available; waiting too long can result in limited assistance. Our legal professionals understand the court system and can confidently get you a different court date. 
  • Provide a Legitimate Reason- If the reason is traffic delays, medical emergencies, or any other significant issues, your attorney needs to be informed immediately. Your attorney can present these issues in court, which can possibly show leniency in your case. Whether you have bail bonds in El Paso or not, the court requires a probable reason for absence. 
  • Submit Supporting Documentation- For example, when attending court cases, providing supporting documentation regarding your absence or delay will help you avoid getting in trouble. This could include travel itineraries, medical records, official notices, or anything that can confirm your reason for absence. Presenting this evidence can show your commitment to complying with court requirements associated with bail bonds. 

Your attorney may give you specific instructions to follow regarding missing a court date. Be sure to listen carefully, as it may just affect how your case proceeds. 

Bail Bonds in El Paso

At Freedom Bail Bonds, located in El Paso, TX, we offer different bail bond services for you to take advantage of. If you or someone you know wants to get out of spending the night in jail, these services will benefit you. Call (915) 877-9293 today for more information.

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Common Misconceptions About Cash Bonds

Stacks of cash against a grey background in El Paso.

The legal system alone is complicated, let alone the bail bond system. The bail bond system is often susceptible to various myths and misconceptions. Fortunately, our team at Freedom Bail Bond in El Paso is here to help clarify the process of how bail bonds work and dispel common myths.

If you’re in need of financial assistance, our bail bond agents are available 24/7. Contact Freedom Bail Bonds in El Paso online or call (915) 877-9293 to learn more about how we can help you!

Myth 1: Bails Can Only Be Paid in Cash

Many people believe that bail can only be paid in cash bonds, making it difficult for defendants without immediate access to large sums of money to secure their release. However, various forms of payment are accepted within the court. This may include a cashier’s check, money order, and even credit card payments in some jurisdictions. In a scenario where a defendant cannot afford bail, they can use the property as collateral or seek out the services of our bail bond agents at Freedom Bail Bonds in El Paso. Our agents can post bail on a defendant’s behalf in exchange for a fee.

Myth 2: Posting Bail Means You’re Free

Another common misconception is that once bail is posted, the defendant is completely free and absolved of all charges. However, posting bail does not mean the defendant is free from the charges against them. Defendants are required to appear at all scheduled court dates and comply with any additional conditions set by the court. An example would be forfeiting travel and staying within the local area. 

Myth 3: Bail Bond Agents Keep All the Money

Some believe that bail bond agents keep all the money paid to them once the defendant makes their court appearances. The truth is that bail bond agents charge a non-refundable fee, typically 10-15% of the total bail amount, for their services. The rest of the bail amount is returned to whoever posted it once the defendant has fulfilled their court obligations, regardless of the outcome of the case. 

Myth 4: Bail Bond Agents and Bounty Hunters Are the Same

There is a misconception that bail bond agents and bounty hunters are the same profession. However, bail bond agents provide the financial means to secure a defendant’s release from jail. Bounty hunters, also known as fugitive recovery agents, are independent contractors who are hired by bail bond agents to track down and apprehend defendants who have skipped bail.

Myth 5: Bail and Bonds Are the Same

Many people use the terms “bail” and “bond” interchangeably, thinking they mean the same thing. Bail and bonds are related but not identical. Bail is the amount of money set by the court that a defendant must pay to be released from jail while awaiting trial. A bond is a financial guarantee provided by a third party, such as a bail bond agent, ensuring the defendant’s appearance in court.

Get Cash Bonds in El Paso with Freedom Bail Bond!

Got into trouble? That’s okay. Our bail bond agents are here to help. We’re open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Contact us online or call (915) 877-9293 for help today and to learn more about our cash bonds!

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Navigating Bail Bonds for First-Time Offenders

A person holding wooden blocks that read “BAIL” in El Paso.

Whether you or a loved one has experienced a first arrest, it can be daunting, especially when faced with the complexities of bail bonds. For individuals experiencing their first encounter with the legal system, understanding bail bonds is crucial to maintaining your life and freedom.

Fortunately, Freedom Bail Bond in El Paso is here to help clients get out of jail as soon as possible. We offer around-the-clock bail bond assistance all year long. Contact us online or call (915) 877-9293 to learn more.

What are Bail Bonds?

Bails financially guarantees that defendants appear for their scheduled court hearings and proceedings. When arrested, they may be granted the opportunity to secure temporary release by posting bail. However, the amount of bail the court sets can vary depending on the severity of the offense, the defendant’s criminal history, and flight risk.

Bail bonds in El Paso provide an alternative option for individuals who cannot pay the full bail amount out of pocket. They become a contract between the defendant, a bail bond agent, and the court, where the agent agrees to pay the full bail in exchange for a non-refundable fee from the client. This fee is typically a percentage of the total bail.

Offense Types

The type of offense committed plays a significant role in determining the bail amount and eligibility for bail bonds. At Freedom Bail Bond, we assist El Paso residents with the following:

Class A Misdemeanors

This class type is one of the most serious misdemeanors, which is punishable by up to a year in jail, a fine of up to $6,250, or both, depending on the crime. Common examples include assault causing bodily harm, possession of 2 ounces of marijuana, and theft of property worth up to $1,500.

Class B Misdemeanors

Class B misdemeanors can result in up to 180 days in jail, a $2,500 fine, or both. Examples include driving under the influence (DUI), prostitution, and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

Class C Misdemeanors

One of the “least serious” misdemeanors, class C is punishable by up to 30 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,250, or both. This includes crimes like traffic violations, disorderly conduct, or public intoxication.

First-Degree Felonies

These are the most serious felonies, with penalties of 5 to 99 years in prison and fines up to $20,000. This includes murder, aggravated sexual assault, and trafficking large amounts of drugs.

Second-Degree Felonies

These felonies carry penalties of 2 to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. Common examples include burglary of a habitation, manslaughter, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

Third-Degree Felonies

Third-degree crimes can result in 2 to 10 years in prison with fines up to $5,000. This includes a third offense of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), indecent exposure to a child, or theft of property worth $20,000 to $100,000.

State Felonies 

These are felonies designated by state law, with penalties varying by jurisdiction. This includes aggravated assault, robbery, and money laundering.

Bail Bonds in El Paso with Freedom Bail Bonds

If you need help, look no further than our team of agents at Freedom Bail Bond. For immediate assistance, call (915) 877-9293.

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How to Choose the Best Bail Bond Company in El Paso

Scrabble tiles spelling out the words “BAIL BOND” on a desk in El Paso.

If a loved one has found themselves in jail, they have options, and with your help, they can be set free rather quickly. Those who have yet to face a judge have the opportunity for bail. Here are the best tips for finding the right company to get a bail bond in time for your loved one. 

If you require the services of a bail bond company in El Paso, Freedom Bail Bonds is here to help. Contact us online or call (915) 877-9293 to learn more about our services and how we can help today.

24-Hour Availability 

You never know what can happen, so choosing a bail bond company that is available 24/7 is the best decision to make. While you or a loved one can wait until a bail bond company opens for the day, a 24/7 business can help you get out of jail as quickly as possible. Always pick a company that has someone available to help you at all hours. 

Speak to a Lawyer 

There is no one better to run to than a lawyer, a professional who understands the ins and outs of legal matters. Everyone is entitled to a lawyer if they have been charged with a crime, so if you need help making bail, a lawyer is one of the first people you should try reaching out to. 

Look for Honesty and Transparency 

A bail bond company should be 100% honest about every way that their business works. You will have to pay money to access a bail bondsman, but you will most likely save money by going with a pro than handling everything yourself. Simultaneously, make sure you are aware of their fees and billing. 

Consider Experience and Licensing 

Like any other industry or business, your best choice is working with a bail bond company that has years of experience in this area of work. More importantly, a trustworthy bail bond company should be licensed. Always try to look at their track record to see what kinds of cases the company has handled before, including reviews and ratings.

Cheap Bonds Are Not Always The Best Bail Bonds 

While it may be tempting to go with the cheapest services you can find, that doesn’t always mean they are the best services. Cheap bonds are usually a sign of a corrupt company that is more after your money than actually helping you out. Any company that has lower than an 8% fee aligning with the state cap should raise suspicions. 

Willing to Negotiate 

There are some bail bond companies that would be willing to work with you. Most companies will accept collateral or property in exchange for a bond. But if you do decide to use property as collateral, have someone appraise it. You never want a company to underestimate the value of your assets. 

Quality Customer Service 

And most importantly, a bail bond company should be dedicated to helping you. Finding a helpful bail bond company isn’t easy to work. It requires research and careful consideration. But when you find a company that provides quality customer service, they are most likely worth your time and money.

Choose the Best Bail Bond Company in El Paso. Contact Freedom Bail Bonds, Today 

One of the most important things to keep in mind when choosing a bail bond company is using your best judgment. We guarantee that our services can help you or a loved one.  Contact us online or call (915) 877-9293 today to learn more. 

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The 5 Things You Need to Know About Bail Bonds in El Paso

The phrase “bail bonds” is superimposed over a blue background with the image of Lady Justice.

Many individuals like to watch crime TV shows. They feel the exhilaration of solving cases. Some of the expressions we learn come from these shows. You could pick up a lot of knowledge about legal processes, prison regulations, and other topics. You are aware of what bail is, for the most part. But many are unaware of what it is.

Understanding the process can be challenging. Consider your friend or relative being taken into custody. They might or might not be at fault, but you will still try to free them from custody. However, you’re in danger if you don’t have the necessary funds. Asking a friend or family member for a loan could embarrass you. 

For this scenario, bail bonds in El Paso, TX, come to the rescue. Here are the five crucial things you need to know about bail bonds.

1. They Act as Insurance

Like insurance, it ensures that the defendant will show up for court on the scheduled days. The accused need not serve the entirety of their sentence behind bars. They may remain at home, but they have to show up in court. Getting someone out of jail might cost a lot of money.

Therefore, not many families have access to that kind of funding. To free their loved ones from prison, they buy these bonds. When you have selected the ideal business, visit their location. For the bond, you will make a down payment. You can send an agent if you’re too embarrassed to go.

You might always speak with your attorney, or if you still have questions, they’ll direct you on the appropriate path.

2. You Require Some Documents

You will need to carry some paperwork with you when you visit their office. You cannot travel without any supplies. A legitimate ID is needed – it doesn’t matter if it’s a passport or a driver’s license. You should also bring your bank account information.

Finally, you should produce evidence of your address to prevent the defendant from escaping. Not least, among other things, the required finances. They will act as a deposit and as collateral. You will have all you need to free your loved one once this is all done.

3. The Cost Varies

You need to be aware that the judge determines the bail. Everything is based on crime. Additionally, they will likely set a bigger sum if they anticipate that you’ll attempt to run. Sometimes, it’s possible to estimate the cost. But a lot of things could affect the price. But the sum will be formally disclosed by the judge.

4. Requirement of a Collateral

For you to be able to pay the bail, you’ll need to offer collateral. If the defendant doesn’t show up, this is necessary. You may always use some cash as security.

However, there are other choices. You could put up a costly vehicle or home, for instance. Additionally, you might utilize stocks, bonds, or jewelry. Different collaterals are possible as each case is different.

You should know who will take back whatever collateral you have provided. Therefore, whether it is cash or jewelry, you’ll receive it back. Therefore, there is nothing to worry about. They’ll keep the item there temporarily. In this manner, they ensure that you will repay them. Some individuals believe it to be an extra charge for the service. 

5. A Business Like No Other

Bail bonds may be perceived as an aspect of the criminal underworld, but they are insurance firms like any other. They must be well knowledgeable in contract, criminal, and financial law. Additionally, state or federal governments may license and regulate bail bondsmen. The pressure of overcrowding is lessened by allowing those charged with a crime to be released from custody until their trial date. Bail bond companies like this one can help in this situation.

El Paso Bail Bonds

Bail bonds can greatly help ease the stressful situation of the accused and his near ones. If you are looking for a credible resource to get bail bonds in El Paso, TX, contact us for further information and professional guidance.