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Should You Use The Bail Schedule For Early Release, Or Wait For An Arraignment?

17 January 2022

Jimmie Holland

In some states, jails have a bail schedule that shows the basic amount of bail required for many charges. You're actually allowed to post bail right then and there if you have it and know what you've been charged with. This can be a handy way to get released from jail earlier than you would if you waited for a bail hearing or arraignment. However, it might not be the best option for everyone, and some may even benefit more by going to the hearing and then getting a bail bond.

One Charge Versus Many

If you have one clear charge that is on the bail schedule, it's simple to pay that bail amount (it's not necessarily easy as the bail amount might be high or you might have trouble letting that much money go. It is still a simple process to pay the bail for one charge). If you have multiple charges or don't quite understand what you're being charged with, figuring out what your bail is might be more complicated. The police can help you calculate the amount, but if the police aren't willing to help you, you're on your own. Waiting for a bail hearing may be best so you know exactly what bail you need to pay or cover with a bail bond.

High Amounts and Adjustments

Sometimes misdemeanor bail is low enough that you can place the bail amount on your credit card and be released. Other times, especially if you've been charged with a felony, bail amounts can be very high, and even a great credit line can't help you. By going through a bail hearing, you can try to get the bail amount reduced, and then get a bail bond to cover the rest.

Have You Been Through This Before?

A major point in favor of going through a bail hearing is that if you've never gone through the court system before, this is where you'll find out what happens next. Even if you can tell that the bail schedule amount is something you'll be able to pay, if you aren't completely sure of what the court process is, it may be best for you to go before a judge. However, if you've been arrested before and know how the system works, simply paying the amount on the bail schedule could be the easiest route for you to take.

You'll encounter the bail schedule once again in court if you go through the hearing – this is the list of bail amounts that judges base bail on. At court, you'll get more information about what will happen to you and what your responsibilities are in terms of showing up to a hearing or speaking with a legal representative.

If you go to court and receive a bail amount that is very large, you'll be able to find bail bond offices near the courthouse where you can get a collateral bond and secure your temporary freedom.

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