Introduction

Being charged with a felony can be a daunting experience, and one of the first questions that may come to mind is whether or not you can bond out. The answer to this question is not always straightforward, as there are several factors that can affect your ability to do so. In this article, we will explore the process of bonding out on a felony charge and what you need to know.

What is Bonding Out?

Bonding out, also known as posting bail, is the process of paying a set amount of money to the court in exchange for your release from jail while your case is pending. This money serves as a guarantee that you will appear in court for all scheduled hearings and proceedings. If you fail to appear, the court may keep the money and issue a warrant for your arrest.

It is important to note that bonding out does not mean that you are free from all legal obligations. You are still required to attend all court hearings and comply with any conditions set by the court, such as refraining from contacting certain individuals or staying within a certain geographic area.

Factors Affecting Bonding Out

While bonding out may seem like a straightforward process, there are several factors that can affect your ability to do so. These include:

• The severity of the charges against you: In general, the more serious the charges, the higher the bail amount will be. This means that if you are facing a felony charge, the bail amount may be significantly higher than if you were facing a misdemeanor charge.
• Your criminal history: If you have a history of failing to appear in court or have prior convictions, the court may view you as a flight risk and set a higher bail amount or deny bail altogether.
• Your ties to the community: If you have strong ties to the community, such as a job, family, or property, the court may view you as less of a flight risk and set a lower bail amount.
• Your financial resources: If you are unable to pay the full bail amount, you may need to seek the assistance of a bail bondsman. However, this can be costly, as bail bondsmen typically charge a non-refundable fee of 10% of the total bail amount.

It is important to note that even if you are able to bond out, there may be conditions set by the court that you must comply with. Failure to comply with these conditions can result in your bail being revoked and you being sent back to jail.

Conclusion

Bonding out on a felony charge can be a complex and stressful process, but understanding the factors that can affect your ability to do so can help you navigate the legal system more effectively. If you are facing a felony charge, it is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your options and protect your rights.