What Happens At A Domestic Violence Bail Bond Hearing?

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If you've been charged with domestic violence, you'll probably have to go to a bail bond hearing to get out of jail. Here's what you can expect.

How Do Bail Bonds Work?

When you're arrested, you'll be booked into jail. In order to be released until your trial, you'll usually need to post a bail bond.

A bail bond is basically a financial deposit. You post money with the court and get it back if you return to court. If you skip your court dates, you lose your bail bond.

When Do You Need a Bail Bond Hearing?

Most cases require a hearing before you can get a bail bond. The purpose of the hearing is to set the amount of your bail bond.

Some minor offenses have automatic bail bonds that don't need a hearing. Domestic violence is a serious offense, so you usually need to see a judge to get a bail bond amount.

What Happens at a Bail Bond Hearing?

A person who has been arrested on a domestic violence charge can't be released from jail until they go before the judge. After the judge calls out the defendant's name, the defendant steps up to a lectern in front of a camera. The judge then reads the arrest warrant affidavit that was written by an arresting officer to determine if there is probable cause to believe that a crime occurred and that the defendant is the perpetrator of that crime.

An attorney can ask the judge to find that there is not enough evidence to support the charges. Usually, most judges find probable cause. Then, the judge sets the bail amount. The bail amount is usually set according to the pre-set bail schedule.

Is a Bail Bond All You Need to Get Out of Jail?

Most bail bonds come with conditions of release. A common condition in a domestic violence case is a no-contact order. A no-contact order means that the defendant must move out of the house and stay away from the victim. They're also unable to text, call, or email the victim. A no-contact order is also called a restraining order in many places.

Sometimes, judges order that the defendant wear a GPS device and/or be restricted to their residence. This usually only happens in the most serious cases.

To learn more about bail bonds, contact a domestic violence bail bonds company in your area. 


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