If you or a loved one has been arrested in Wasatch County, Utah, you may be wondering how to secure your release from jail. One option is to post bail, which is a sum of money that is paid to the court to ensure that the defendant shows up for their court dates.
However, if you do not have the funds to pay for bail, you may consider obtaining a bail bond from a bail bond company. In this article, we will explain how bail bonds work in Wasatch County and what you need to know before choosing a bail bond company.
What are Bail Bonds?
A bail bond is a contract between the defendant, a bail bond company, and the court. The defendant or their loved one pays a fee to the bail bond company, usually 10% of the total bail amount, and the company puts up the rest of the money as collateral to secure the defendant’s release from jail. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bail bond company forfeits the bail money to the court.
How Bail Bonds Work in Wasatch County
In Wasatch County, the bail amount is set by the court based on several factors, including the severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and the likelihood that the defendant will flee or pose a danger to the community. If the defendant cannot afford to pay the full bail amount, they may obtain a bail bond from a licensed bail bond company.
Once the bail bond company has been contacted, they will require certain information from the defendant or their loved ones, such as the defendant’s name, booking number, and the bail amount. The bail bond company will then post the bail amount with the court, and the defendant will be released from jail.
Types of Bail Bonds Available in Wasatch County
There are several types of bail bonds available in Wasatch County, including:
- Cash bonds: This is the most straightforward type of bail bond, where the defendant or their loved one pays the full bail amount in cash to the court.
- Surety bonds: This is the most common type of bail bond, where the defendant or their loved one pays a fee to a bail bond company, which puts up the rest of the bail amount as collateral.
- Property bonds: This type of bail bond allows the defendant or their loved one to use property, such as a house or a car, as collateral to secure the bail amount.
- Federal bonds: This type of bail bond is used for federal cases, and the bail amount is set by the federal court.
Choosing a Bail Bond Company in Wasatch County
When choosing a bail bond company in Wasatch County, it is important to do your research and choose a company that is licensed, experienced, and reputable. You should also compare fees and make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the bail bond contract before signing it.
Conclusion: Understanding Bail Bonds in Wasatch County
If you or a loved one has been arrested in Wasatch County, understanding how bail bonds work can help you make informed decisions about your release from jail. By choosing a licensed and reputable bail bond company and understanding the terms and conditions of the bail bond contract, you can ensure a smooth and successful release from jail while awaiting trial.