What does “no bond” actually mean? It means you are not bondable, you do not receive a “get-out of jail free” card, you “will not pass go.” This article will define and explain why the term “no bond” might be announced in court, how it can affect your life, and how bail bondsmen can be of service to you.
First let's understand what a bond is. A bond is a method through which the bail is paid. There are cash bonds, surety bonds, and personal recognizance bonds. The type of bond that must be paid depends on the case, crime, and record of the accused. Understanding the difference between bail and bond can be crucial in navigating your options.
During the arraignment, which is the first appearance before a judge, the charges are read and the judge will set a bail. Under specific and serious circumstances the judge might declare “no bond.” This means that he did not set a bail, and so it cannot be posted. The defendant must stay in custody for the duration of the case or until a judge sets bail at a later date. Although it’s unlikely for a judge to reverse a “no bond” decision, it might happen if new evidence is presented or an appeal is made to a higher court.
There are many reasons why a judge might say “no bond.” If the defendant:
The seriousness of the crime greatly influences the judge’s decision also. The more severe the offense, the likelier the judge will state “no bond.”
If you are in court and the judge rules “no bond,” you will be detained for the remainder of your case. Besides those for motor vehicle offenses, there is no legal protection for the jobs of those incarcerated. So if you are employed, you will no longer be able to work, resulting in probable termination. If you are attending school, you may forfeit your financial aid to unmet GPA and attendance requirements. Regardless of financial aid, if your school does not allow you to take an approved leave of absence, your grades could suffer dramatically.
On top of that, you will be away from your family, and only able to see loved ones during scheduled visits. Being stuck in jail restricts your ability to adequatelyprepare for court. While it can still be done, it is significantly more challenging without the freedom to seek evidence or consult your lawyer freely. All things aside, you’re in jail, which is no picnic.
Even if you are not bondable, a bail bondsman can still help you out by acting as a consultant and communicating with your lawyer about your case. It is in their best interest to help you. If, in the rare instance, the judge rescinds the “no bond” and sets bail, your bail bondsman can facilitate your release from jail right away.
Whether you are the defendant, trying to get home, or you have a loved one you want to help out, the best thing you can do is prepare thoroughly for court. Find a reliable lawyer, gather all the evidence you can, and stay informed about the legal process. Maintain regular communication with your attorney, if you are able, to ensure that any new information is shared promptly and that you put your best foot forward. Call Sportsmans Bail Bonds at 801-919-8673, for help or to secure a bail bond.