When you discover yourself in jail, you immediately want out. However, your head is likely swimming with questions, one of which being “Can I post bail for myself?”
There are a few various ways you can make bail, and yes, out of pocket sure is an option. However, there are several things to note before you try posting.
Do You Have the Cash?
Not all bail amounts get made equally, and it’s not uncommon to receive one with six digits or more. In other instances, the cost might be a few hundred bucks or eliminated entirely.
While you think that you have enough resources for you to bail out, you won’t know for sure until you see a judge. What they set for your release might shock you, and you may not afford it after all.
Others Can Post for You
Despite what Hollywood might make you think, no inmate gets guaranteed a phone call. If, however, you do get an opportunity, you’ll want to call a loved one as soon as possible.
Before you guilt them into posting for you, however, make sure you can live with what you’re asking of them. When your bail is several thousand dollars, it makes for an uncomfortable drive home.
What If I Can’t Post Bail for Myself?
If you’re broke, and none of your friends or family members can rub enough coins together, then you’re only other two options are to remain in jail or use a bail bond. Bail bonds work similarly to traditional financial loans in that it’s an advance you pay back a premium to leave custody.
You agree that, in exchange for them paying to let you out, you show up to court and pay them back a percentage. If you decide to skip bail, however, they’re not going to be happy, and they will arrest you themselves.
Why Don’t I Have a Bail Amount?
Bail is not guaranteed, and not all inmates qualify for a release amount. If you committed an especially severe crime, are a repeat offender, or are deemed a flight risk, the judge isn’t going to let you out anywhere.
A judge can easily deny you bond, and instead, force you to remain there in jail until your hearing. At that point, there isn’t a way to leave police custody.
