Q: Bail bonds role and charges
My sister was picked up by the Lodi police last night after she called 911 due to domestic conflict. When the police came, she was apparently found intoxicated with alcohol and her husband had “scratches” on his neck so my sister had to be taken in to jail. We were able to get bail bonds so she was let out this morning. Her husband is not filing charges. How do we deal with this issue? Please advise, thanks.
Bail bonds company told us her bail was set at 50k so was asked to put 5k down to get her out. Is this amount normal?
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A:
The role of a bail bonds company is to provide a surety bond, which allows a defendant to be released from jail before their court date. In your sister's case, the bail was set at $50,000, and typically, a bail bonds company charges around 10% of the bail amount as a non-refundable fee. So, a $5,000 fee for a $50,000 bail is standard in many jurisdictions.
However, the amount of bail set by the court can vary greatly depending on factors such as the severity of the charges, the defendant's criminal history, and perceived flight risk. In cases involving domestic conflict, bail amounts can be higher due to the potential risk to the alleged victim.
Even if her husband chooses not to file charges, the state may still pursue the case. It's important for your sister to follow all conditions set by the court and the bail bonds company. This typically includes appearing for all scheduled court dates and not having contact with the victim if such a condition is imposed.
In dealing with this issue, it's crucial to consult with an attorney who can guide you through the legal process. The attorney can provide advice specific to your sister's case and help navigate the complexities of the legal system.
Lastly, while your sister is out on bail, it would be wise for her to avoid any actions or situations that could further complicate her legal situation. Compliance with all legal requirements and court orders is essential during this time.
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