How Do Bail Bonds Work in Florida?

Bail bonds are typically perceived as an option for those who have been arrested on a criminal charge. Throughout the country, immigration bail bonds are rising in popularity as the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency increases its level of arrests and detainments. Essentially, the two types of bonds are the same but they are used for different purposes, so how do bail bonds work in Florida?

When a person is arrested on a criminal charge in Florida, they will have the opportunity to have a bond hearing. During this hearing, a judge will evaluate the charges against the arrested individual and determine their risk level. This risk may include their ability to flee as well as any risk they may present to the public. Those who have a high-risk level, based on their charges or other factors, will either be denied release on bond or will receive a bond that is set at an exceptionally high rate. This process is the same throughout the country when it comes to criminal charges, however, it also applies to immigrants who are detained by ICE.

In either case, after a price is set for a bond, a loved one must then pay this amount in full at the local prison or ICE facility. If friends or family members are able to pay the bail bond in cash, they simply arrange an appointment to sign paperwork and post the bail. This is easier to do when it comes to criminal charges than immigration charges. Posting bond at an ICE facility is a notoriously time-consuming process and sponsors must meet an array of requirements like being a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident. Because of this, many residents opt to use a bond service in Florida instead.

The process of using a bond service for criminal or immigration charges is essentially the same. For starters, those who are unable to pay the amount of the bond in full will need to purchase what is known as a surety bond. A surety bond requires a downpayment, which equals out to a small percentage of the total bail bond amount. From there, they will also be asked to provide a form of collateral. Depending on the cost of the bond, this may be anything from the title to a vehicle to the deed to a house. This collateral ensures that the bond service will be able to cover the cost of the bond in the event that the arrested individual fails to appear at further court proceedings. It will not be collected if the arrested person abides by the terms of their bail.

To avoid complications with ICE, many loved ones who can pay the full amount of the bond in cash also opt to use an immigration bond service in Florida. This ensures that they have expert guidance throughout the process and that the immigrant is released quickly from ICE detainment. Likewise,  they receive a refund in a timely fashion as their funds are held in escrow while the case processes through the court system.

Have more questions like how do bail bonds work in Florida? Contact US Immigration Bonds today to get answers and learn about the options that are available to you.