If certain mistakes have caught up with you, and you’re facing prison time, a bail option may help you keep your job and remain with your family. Whether you need bail help for yourself or for a loved one, there are several things you should know about the bail bond process before you contact a bonds company.

1. The Judge Could Offer a Bail-Free Release

If you haven’t had trouble with the court system in the past, and you can show that your reliable, the judge may be willing to release you without requiring bail. If you don’t think that will happen, there’s still a chance that you can get the bail amount released.

2. You Will Be Charged a Fee

If you have enough cash to pay your own bail amount, you can expect to get it all back after you’ve fulfilled the requirements set by the judge. Unfortunately, bail amounts are often set out of the range of what you can easily pay. When this happens, a bail bond agency is often willing to handle the payment. You will pay a percentage of the bail amount and you’ll be charged a fee for the services.

3. Money Isn’t the Only Way To Pay

It is possible to fulfill Lackawanna county bail bonds requirements without having a lot of cash available. Sometimes, courts and bail agencies will accept titles to your car or home, valuable items, and other possessions. If you believe you have something of value that may be accepted by the court, make sure you ask. There’s no need to wait in jail for court appearances if you have valuable belongings or other acceptable assets.

4. Some Bail Companies Work With Defense Lawyers and Court Officers

If you aren’t sure which bail company will work best with you, ask your defense attorney. This is one way to find a bail agency that is reputable in your community, and you may qualify for a reduced price through the referral. If you don’t have an attorney, ask the officers in the court system for recommendations.