If you happen to find yourself arrested, then it is almost certain that you are going to jail. However, that doesn’t have to be the case if you act fast to try and get out on bail. It is for this reason that you need to use that one phone call carefully to contact someone that will help you. The law allows you to get released from jail even after being charged with an offense, but the terms differ. You can secure your release by paying a certain amount set by the court or by other means available. In South Carolina, four major types of bonds can guarantee your freedom. These are namely; personal recognizance, cash bond, surety bond and cash percentage bonds.

Types of Bonds in Greenville, SC

Release on Personal Recognizance

It is a common type of bond that has no financial implication on you. It is usually an option for those who have committed minor offenses and do not have any previous record. Most of the people that are allowed this type of bond are ones that have roots in the community so they cannot flee.  

In this type of bond, you sign a document promising that even after your release, you will appear in court. A lot of things are put into consideration before it is granted to you to ensure that you will keep your promise.

The bond was introduced to release minor offenders and to reduce crowding in station jails. In case you do not appear in court as instructed, a warrant of arrest will be issued. You will be arrested and remain in jail till completion of your case.

Cash Bond

You are allowed to pay a cash bond whereby you need to pay the full amount of the bail to the court. Most states require the payment in cash only while some accept checks and credit cards. While most bonds are payable in cash, sometimes the court may need a bond just to be paid in cash. This means that the other options are not viable. It is usually the case when you have committed a serious offense, but there is not enough reason to deny bail. If the court suspects that you may be a flight risk, you may be required to pay the bail in full in cash only.

Cash Percentage Bond

It is a type of bond where you have the option only to pay a fraction of the total bail. The percentage required is usually about 10% of the bail amount. For example, if bail is $30,000 you are only required to pay 10%, which is $3,000. It is a great option when you cannot afford to pay the cash bond. Even after paying the bond, you still need to show up in court when you are required to be there. In case you do not, your deposit will be forfeited, and you will need to pay the 90% balance.

Surety Bond

Also referred to as bail bond is a type that uses a third party to pay your obligation. A relative or friend can hire a bondsman on your behalf and pay a deposit of 10% the bail. When everything is in order, the bondsman will secure your release using that amount. The catch here is that you have to show up in court when needed.

If you cannot afford to pay the full bail amount, this is the way to go. Aside from the 10%, the bail bond agent will need some form of collateral in case you don’t appear in court. The good thing is that the guarantee can be anything of value that can compensate the total bail amount. If you show up to all your court dates as required, your collateral is returned to you. The 10% deposit is, however, non-refundable so the bondsman will keep that.

In all these types of bonds, the amount you pay to the court is refundable if you meet all your court dates. In case you fail even one attendance, the bond will be forfeited, and you will be required to pay in full.

To avoid spending an unnecessary amount of time in jail, you need our help at Greenville Bail Bonds. We have experienced agents who are available round the clock to serve you.  We handle of of the aforementioned types of bonds. Once we have made a deal and everything is perfect, we assure you your release in just a matter of hours.