FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS BY INDEMITOR /COSIGNER

How long does it take for my loved one to be released from jail?

The time it takes to be released from jail after posting bail can vary based on several factors. Here are some key points:

  1. Paperwork Processing: Jails need to complete a significant amount of paperwork to ensure that the individual is eligible for release. This process includes verifying that there are no additional warrants or holds on the person.
  2. Volume of Cases: The number of inmates being processed at the time can affect the speed of release. If the jail is busy with other cases, it may take longer to complete the process.
  3. Time of Day: The timing of posting bail can also impact release. For example, weekends or late nights may have slower processing times due to fewer staff working.
  4. Jurisdictional Differences: Some jurisdictions may have quicker or slower processes depending on local protocols and systems in place.

Although posting bail does begin the process of release, it’s common for defendants to wait several hours before being released, particularly if other factors, such as high volume, are involved.

We charge a non-refundable fee of 10% of the bail amount. We offer several payment options including installment plans.  We’ll work with you to figure out what fits your budget.

We charge a non-refundable fee of 10% of the bail amount. We offer several payment options including installment plans.  We’ll work with you to figure out what fits your budget.

Collateral is something of value—like a house, car, or jewelry—that can be used to back up the bail bond. If the person doesn’t attend court, the bail bond company can take the collateral to cover the lost money. So, collateral is important because it helps ensure that people will keep their promises and return for their trials. This helps to guarantee the defendant will appear in court.

Collateral is typically required to reduce the risk taken on by the bail bond company. It can come in various forms, such as real estate, vehicles, jewelry, or other valuable assets. This collateral ensures that the company can recover the full bail amount if the defendant fails to appear in court.

If the defendant does not meet their obligation to attend court proceedings, the bail bond company becomes liable for the full bail amount. In this case, the collateral serves as a safety net, providing financial protection for the company.

We may be able to make other arrangements to secure a bond for you with no collateral.

Call Atlantic Coastal Bail Bonds or Raeford Bail Bonds immediately.  There may still be opportunities to rectify the situation before your property is forfeited.

What if the defendant skips?

If the defendant fails to appear, an arrest warrant is issued for the defendant then an Atlantic Coastal Bail Bonds or Raeford Bail Bonds agent will track him down, return the defendant to jail and the bail is revoked.  Costs associated with this recovery may be passed onto the defendant.  Any collateral will be sold to pay for the bail.

The defendant, a friend or family member may offer collateral. It is important to carefully consider when offering collateral. If the defendant “skips” or doesn’t show up for trial, any collateral will be forfeited so, with that being said, it is your responsibility to make sure the defendant makes his appearances.

The defendant, a friend or family member may offer collateral. It is important to carefully consider when offering collateral. If the defendant “skips” or doesn’t show up for trial, any collateral will be forfeited so, with that being said, it is your responsibility to make sure the defendant makes his appearances.

You do have to have good, established credit to qualify. Meaning you must have credit and be using it responsibly. We take into consideration several factors: length of residency, employment and arrest history, ability to make payments and other factors. Applying is your first step in determining how we can help you.  

No, but that person can be sued, and if that co-signer has committed property as collateral, the bondsman can make a legal claim on that property

If your question wasn’t answered in this list, please call Atlantic Coastal Bail Bonds at 910-223-1070 or Raeford Bail Bonds at 910 -904-BOND (2663) to speak with one of our courteous and professional agents today!

Arraignment or 1st Appearance

Is the day following the arrest when charged with a felony the defendant is brought in front of a district court judge who (1) formally reads the allegations, (2) offers the opportunity to apply for a public defender, (3) sets the next court date and (4) considers bond modifications. Only persons accused of felonies are arraigned and required to go to 1st appearance.

The individual that is in custody during the pre-trial phase of criminal proceedings.

also referred as “Processing” is the process of fingerprinting, photographing and formally identifying persons accused of a criminal offense.

Under North Carolina General Statute 15A-534, a judicial official is required to impose at least one of the following five conditions for pre-trial release:

  1. Written Promise to Appear: The defendant signs a document promising to appear in court without having to post bail.
  2. Unsecured Bond: A bond is set, but the defendant is not required to pay it unless they fail to appear in court.
  3. Custody Release: The defendant is released into the custody of a third party, often a family member or another responsible individual.
  4. Secured Bond: The defendant must post a bond or provide collateral in order to be released.
  5. Electronic Monitoring (House Arrest): The defendant is placed under electronic monitoring, typically involving house arrest, to ensure compliance with release conditions.

Under this condition, the defendant is placed in the custody of a competent person or organization that agrees to supervise them. The responsible party, which could be a family member, friend, or organization, must ensure that the defendant complies with the terms of their release and appears in court when required. The custodian is often tasked with reporting any violations of the release conditions to the court.

also referred as a Temporary Hold or 72-hour Hold. Allows a judicial official to delay setting bail for a defendant for a short period of time, typically when the safety of the alleged victim is at risk. This hold gives authorities additional time to assess the situation and ensure that proper measures are in place to protect the victim before deciding on bail conditions. In Cumberland, Hoke and Scotland County the hold is usually 48 hours.

or House Arrest is a Condition of Release. where the defendant is confined to their home and monitored using an electronic tracking device, such as an ankle bracelet. The court may allow specific exceptions for the defendant to leave the house for approved activities, such as work, school, medical appointments, or other essential obligations.

or Cosigner, is the individual who assumes financial responsibility alongside the bail bond agency on a bond contract. By signing the agreement, the indemnitor guarantees that the defendant will appear in court as required. If the defendant fails to appear, the indemnitor is liable for the full amount of the bail.

Magistrate

a judicial official appointed by the Clerk of Court who handles lower-level criminal and civil matters. Magistrates are often responsible for conducting initial hearings, issuing warrants, and making decisions on bond or bail for criminal defendants. In Cumberland, Hoke, and Scotland County, the magistrate typically sets the bond for criminal defendants, determining the conditions of pre-trial release based on factors like the nature of the crime and the defendant’s history.

Under this Condition of Release, the magistrate requires the defendant to post a specific financial amount, either in cash, through collateral, or by using a bail bond agency, before they can be released from pre-trial detention. The bond serves as a guarantee that the defendant will appear in court as required. If the defendant fails to appear, they forfeit the bond, and the full amount becomes payable.

Under this condition of release, the defendant is not required to post bail upfront. However, a bail amount is still set, and the defendant only becomes financially liable for that amount if they fail to appear in court or violate the terms of their release.

Under this Condition of Release, the accused signs an affidavit or document promising to attend all scheduled court dates without having to post bail or provide a financial guarantee.