How Bail Bonds Work in Georgia – Step-by-Step Explained

When someone is arrested in Georgia, the court often requires a payment called bail, allowing the individual to return home while waiting for their trial. Bail helps ensure that the defendant will show up to all required court dates. Unfortunately, bail amounts can be high, making it difficult for some to pay. That’s where bail bonds come in. Bail bond agencies can help individuals post bail without having to pay the full amount upfront.

In this blog, we’ll explain how bail is set, how bail bonds work in Georgia, and what to expect from the process. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of each step.

What is Bail and How is it Set in Georgia?

Bail is money that a defendant pays to the court as a guarantee that they will return for their court appearances. In Georgia, a judge decides the bail amount based on several factors. These include the seriousness of the charges, whether the defendant has a criminal history, and whether the defendant is considered a flight risk. The judge’s goal is to set a bail amount that ensures the defendant returns to court but isn’t unreasonably high.

For more serious crimes, bail can be set higher, or in some cases, the judge may deny bail if they believe the defendant poses a danger to the community or might flee.

How Do Bail Bonds Work in Georgia? A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a simple breakdown of the bail bond process in Georgia, from arrest to release:

Step 1: Arrest and Booking

When someone is arrested, they go through a process called booking. This involves being taken to jail, where law enforcement officers record details like the defendant’s name, the alleged crime, and fingerprints. A mugshot is also taken.

Step 2: Bail Hearing

Once booking is complete, the defendant appears before a judge at a bail hearing. The judge reviews the case and sets a bail amount. If the bail amount is too high to afford, that’s when a bail bond agency can help.

Step 3: Contacting a Bail Bond Agency

If you can’t afford the full bail amount, you can contact a bail bond agency like Free at Last Bail Bonds. When you call, you’ll need to provide information about the defendant and the bail amount.

Step 4: Paying the Bail Bond Fee

To secure a bail bond, you typically pay the agency a fee of about 10-15% of the bail amount. This fee is non-refundable and covers the agency’s services. A co-signer might be required, who agrees to be responsible for the full bail if the defendant doesn’t appear in court. Learn more about co-signer requirements. 

Step 5: Release from Jail

Once the bail bond fee is paid, the agency posts the bond with the court, and the defendant is released from jail. This process can take a few hours, depending on how busy the jail is.

Step 6: Court Appearances

It’s critical that the defendant shows up to all scheduled court appearances. If they miss a court date, they risk forfeiting the bail bond, which could result in further legal trouble and financial consequences for the co-signer.

Step 7: Exoneration of Bail

Once the case is resolved, whether through trial or plea deal, the bail bond is exonerated. This means the bond agreement is over, but the bail bond fee paid to the agency is not refunded.

Types of Bail Bonds Available in Georgia

In Georgia, there are several types of bail bonds available:

• Cash Bonds: Paid in full with cash.
• Surety Bonds: This is the most common type, where a bail bond agency covers the bail for a fee.
• Property Bonds: Real estate is used as collateral for bail.
• Recognizance Bonds: This is granted when the judge allows the defendant to be released based on their promise to return to court without needing to pay bail.

Each type of bond serves different needs. For example, property bonds are often used when the defendant can’t afford a cash or surety bond but owns property.

Read more: Georgia Bail Bond Laws Explained (2024) 

What Happens If a Defendant Fails to Appear in Court?

If the defendant doesn’t show up for their scheduled court date, the court will issue a bench warrant for their arrest. This means they can be arrested again. Additionally, the bail bond is forfeited, and the bail bond agency may send a bail enforcement agent, commonly called a bounty hunter, to find the defendant.

Failure to appear in court not only creates legal problems but also impacts the co-signer of the bond. They could be held financially responsible for the full bail amount.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bail Bonds in Georgia

What are the costs associated with bail bonds?

Bail bond agencies typically charge a non-refundable fee of 10-15% of the total bail amount.

How long does it take to get out of jail once bail is posted?

It usually takes a few hours, depending on the jail’s process and how busy they are.

Can bail bond fees be refunded?

No, the fee paid to the bail bond agency is non-refundable.

What happens if someone co-signs a bail bond?

The co-signer becomes responsible for paying the full bail amount if the defendant fails to appear in court.

Need Help with Bail Bonds in Georgia? Contact Free at Last Bail Bonds

If you or a loved one is facing charges and needs help with bail, Free at Last Bail Bonds is here to assist you. Our team has over 150 years of combined experience, and we are dedicated to helping families during difficult times. Whether it’s criminal, traffic, or juvenile bonds, we offer quick, compassionate service to get your loved one out of jail as soon as possible.

We understand the importance of being with family during these stressful moments, and we’re available 24/7 to guide you through the process. Contact Free at Last Bail Bonds today for immediate assistance.