What Is a Delivery Bond?

A delivery bond is a type of bail bond used to secure the release of a defendant who is already in custody. It guarantees that the bail bond agency will “deliver” the defendant back to court for all required appearances after posting bail.

Delivery bonds are commonly used when a defendant has been arrested and booked into jail and needs to be released while their case is pending.

How Does a Delivery Bond Work?

A delivery bond follows a straightforward process:

1. Arrest & Booking – The defendant is taken into custody and bail is set.
2. Bail Bond Agency Contacted – A licensed bail agent is contacted to post bail.
3. Bond Is Posted – The bail bond agency posts the bond with the court or jail.
4. Defendant Is Released – Once processed, the defendant is released from custody.
5. Court Appearances Required – The defendant must appear at all scheduled hearings.

If the defendant fails to appear, the bail bond agency is responsible for returning them to custody or facing bond forfeiture.

When Is a Delivery Bond Used?

Delivery bonds are most commonly used when:

• A defendant is currently in jail
• Bail has been set by the court
• The defendant cannot afford to pay the full bail amount
• Immediate release is needed

This is the most common type of bail bond used in criminal cases.

Delivery Bond vs. Other Bond Types

Delivery Bond

• Used when the defendant is already in custody
• Bail bond agency posts the bond
• Defendant is released after processing

Cash Bond

• Full bail amount paid directly to the court
• Money returned after case concludes (minus fees)

Property Bond

• Property used as collateral
• Requires court approval and valuation

Release on Recognizance (ROR)

• No money required
• Defendant released based on promise to appear

Delivery bonds are preferred when fast release is needed and cash bail is not an option.

Bail Amounts for Delivery Bonds

Bail amounts vary based on:

• Type of charge
• Criminal history
• County bail schedule
• Whether the offense is a misdemeanor or felony

Typical bail ranges:

• Misdemeanor cases: $1,000–$10,000
• Felony cases: $25,000–$100,000+

A bail bond agency usually charges a non-refundable fee of 10% of the total bail amount.

What Happens If the Defendant Misses Court?

If a defendant fails to appear:

• A bench warrant is issued
• The court may forfeit the bond
• The bail bond agency must locate and surrender the defendant
• The indemnitor (co-signer) may be financially responsible

This is why bail agencies carefully evaluate risk before issuing a delivery bond.

How a Bail Bond Agency Helps

A professional bail bond agency:

• Handles jail paperwork and court coordination
• Secures fast release from custody
• Explains all bond conditions clearly
• Helps families understand their responsibilities
• Remains available 24/7

Working with an experienced agency reduces delays and prevents costly mistakes.

Need Help Posting a Delivery Bond?

If you or a loved one has been arrested and needs immediate release, a delivery bond may be the fastest solution. Our experienced bail agents are available 24/7 to post bail, answer questions, and guide you through every step of the process.

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