Bail bonds in Oklahoma City can make it easier to get out of jail until your court date. If you or a loved one has been arrested in Oklahoma City, securing release from jail is likely your top priority. The most common way to obtain release is through a bail bond, which allows you to stay out of jail while awaiting trial. Understanding how bail bonds work in Oklahoma City can help you navigate the process quickly and effectively.
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What Is Bail?
Bail is a financial guarantee that you will return for all scheduled court dates upon release from jail. The court sets bail based on:
- The severity of the charges
- Your criminal history
- Your ties to the community
- The likelihood of your appearing at future court hearings
If you cannot pay the full bail amount, you may work with a licensed bail bond agent to secure your release.
How Do Bail Bonds Work in Oklahoma City?
A bail bond is a contract between you, the bail bond company, and the court. The bail bond agent (also called a bondsman) agrees to pay the full bail amount if you fail to appear in court. In exchange, you pay the agent a non-refundable fee, usually 10% of the total bail amount.
For example, if your bail is $10,000, you would typically pay the bondsman $1,000 to secure your release.
Cash Bond vs. Bail Bond
There are two types of bonds, cash bonds and bail bonds:
Cash Bond: You (or someone on your behalf) can pay the entire bail amount directly to the court in cash. If you appear at all required hearings, the court will refund the full amount (minus court fees) at the end of your case.
Bail Bond: If you cannot afford the full bail, a bail bondsman helps secure release for a fraction of the cost, but you will not get the premium back.
Steps to Get a Bail Bond in Oklahoma City
If you’re wanting to secure a bail bond, there are a few steps you’ll need to take:
1. Confirm Bail Amount
The court sets bail during your initial appearance (arraignment), or you may be given a set bail amount based on Oklahoma County’s bail schedule for common offenses.
2. Contact a Bail Bondsman
Call a licensed Oklahoma City bail bonds company as soon as possible. Many agents are available 24/7 and can start processing your bond right away.
3. Provide Personal and Case Information
The bail bondsman will need details such as:
- The arrestee’s full name and date of birth
- The location of the jail
- The charges filed
- The bail amount set by the court
4. Pay the Bail Bond Fee
You will pay the bondsman the non-refundable premium (typically 10%) and may be asked to provide collateral (such as property, vehicles, or valuables) to secure the bond. Once the bail bond is processed and accepted by the court, the jail will release you. If you fail to appear in court, the bondsman may forfeit the bond and may send a bounty hunter to locate you.
Oklahoma City Criminal Defense
If you’ve been arrested in Oklahoma City, using a bail bond is one of the fastest ways to secure your release. Acting quickly, contacting a reputable bail bondsman, and working with an experienced defense attorney will help you navigate the bail process and return home while your case proceeds.
For assistance with your criminal charges or bail hearing, our criminal defense team at Kania Law – OKC Attorneys can help. Call us today at 405-367-8710 or ask a question online.
