If you have a loved one who has found themselves behind bars, they may be entitled to bail. This allows them to be released from jail while they wait for the outcome of their trial. However, what you may not realize is that there are different types of bail bonds. Here are the three most common types of bail bonds and the situations in which each one is used. 

Personal Recognizance Bond

If your loved one is charged with a crime that is not considered serious, they may be released on a personal recognizance bond. This means that your loved one signs a form at the jail stating that they agree to show up for all of their court hearings and stay out of trouble. No money is required for this type of bond; your loved one is simply released based on their word that they will show up. If they fail to show up for court or catch new charges, they will be remanded back into custody. This type of bond is typically given to first-time offenders who have non-violent crimes, such as DUIs or minor drug charges. 

Cash Bond 

Another type of bond that can be posted is a cash bond. If your loved one is arrested, they may be given a bond amount immediately. In some instances, the bond amount may not be all that much. For example, it may be as little as $500 or $1000. If the bond amount is something that you can afford to pay, you can post a cash bond with the courts. You put up the full amount of the bond amount and then your loved one is free. Once the trial is over, you receive all of the money back, regardless of whether your loved one is found innocent or guilty. However, if your loved one runs or skips bail, you can lose the money you posted. 

Surety Bond

The last type of bail bond that is commonly used to free someone from jail is a surety bond. This type of bond is posted by bail bond agencies. If your loved one has a high bond amount, such as $10,000 or $25,000, you may not have enough cash to post a cash bond. A bond company will charge you a percentage of the bail amount, usually around 10 percent. In exchange, they will post bail for your loved one. However, this type of bail is not refundable, even if your loved one is arrested on new charges, has their charges dropped, or is found not guilty of the charges they were charged with. 

If your loved one was arrested, a bail bonds company can help you figure out if your loved one is eligible for bail, what their bail amount has been set at, and which bail option may be the best for you, based on the situation. Contact a bail bonds agency today to get the help you need in freeing your loved one. For more information, contact local professionals like those found at All Night & Day Bailbonds.