Bail Bonds Don't Require Cash

Because bail bonds are the only way to avoid jail while awaiting trial on criminal charges, individuals are often willing to do whatever they can to produce one and be set free. In times when bond is set too high for one to afford it in cash, other assets can be accepted as collateral instead.
Bail bonds are financial guarantees required by the court system in exchange for setting an accused defendant free prior to trial. This freedom is granted with the understanding that the individual will return to court and stand trial when instructed to.
The amount of the bond depends on a number of factors, including but not limited to the severity of the crime and the potential flight risk of the accused. Because a person’s financial assets are also typically taken into consideration, bond can be set at amounts that significantly tax or even exceed that person’s monetary capabilities.
In these circumstances, an individual is able to use his or her possessions and assets, or those of a family member or friend, as collateral in place of cash. These various assets must have a verifiable value that is agreed upon with the bondsman and can be a number of different things.
One of the most common forms of collateral for bail bonds is a home or other residence, whether it is a condo, apartment or other dwelling. In this situation, the deed is handed over to the bondsman and is held until the person shows up for trial. If he or she fails to show, the deed to that dwelling becomes the property of the bondsman.
The title to a vehicle can be used in a similar fashion. Whether it is a car, truck, motorcycle, boat or any other motorized vehicle of any value, the title can be given to the bondsman as collateral and is kept pending the required court appearance.
A credit card or other form of charge card is also able to be used. In this case, the bondsman must be authorized to charge the card for the amount necessitated by the court and have it held. If the individual does show up in court, the charge is negated or refunded. Otherwise it is put through and becomes the property of the issuer.
Other items or objects without directly specified values, such as jewelry, merchandise or other forms of valuables, can sometimes be accepted by certain bond companies. In this situation, the items are typically appraised and a value determined that is agreed upon by both parties prior to an agreement being signed.
For those who do not have the necessary cash to obtain bail bonds, these forms of collateral can be the best ways to obtain freedom for yourself or those you care about. More specific details about what is accepted in these types of exchanges can be determined by speaking with someone who issues bail bonds in your area.