Common Questions About Bail Bonds

Bail is like a security deposit given in exchange for being allowed to leave jail. The court decides how much it should be, and for more serious things, it might be higher. Once someone is out of jail, they need to show up for all their court times. If they don't, the court might keep the bail money, but if they do everything right, they get it back.

A bail bond, also called a surety bond, is a financial agreement between the defendant and the court. The bond guarantees that the defendant will appear in court as requested, and meet any other conditions. If the defendant fails to comply, an arrest warrant may be issued and the bond may be forfeited.

First, when someone is in jail, they go through a process called booking. Then, the court decides how much the bail should be. If you have all the money, you can pay it directly to the court. But if you don't, a bail bond service, like ours, can help.

Bail in California is set by a judge in the county where the arrest occurred. The state regulates bail bond fees, ensuring all companies charge the same rate. Once payment is made and a qualified cosigner is secured, we post the bond, allowing for the defendant’s release.

To bail someone out, a cosigner needs:
A valid ID
A pay stub
A utility bill
The cosigner must be a U.S. citizen and at least 18 years old.

The paperwork process typically takes about 20 minutes.

We accept cash, checks, credit cards, money orders, and Western Union Quick Collect.

Release time varies by jail and county, typically ranging from 30 minutes to four hours.

An Indemnitor (or co-signer) signs the bail contract and ensures the defendant attends court.

A cosigner agrees to:
Ensure the defendant attends all court dates.
Notify us of any upcoming court appearances.
Pay the premium if applicable.

The defendant must:
Report to our office immediately after release to complete paperwork and receive court date details.
Inform us of any new court dates in person or by phone.
Attend all scheduled court appearances.

Yes, but any refund will go to the cosigner.

No, the payment is non-refundable once the bond is posted. However, if we are unable to post the bond, a refund may be issued.

No, but the defendant must report to their local office right after release to complete the paperwork.

Bailing someone out allows them to return to work, school, or family, continue daily life, prepare a defense, and avoid punishment before conviction.

You are no longer responsible once the defendant has met all court dates and legal obligations, and the court exonerates the bond.

A bond is “exonerated” when the defendant has attended all court dates, and their case is concluded. After this, there are no further financial obligations from the cosigner, collateral provider, or the bail bonds company to the court.

Yes. Escape Bail Bonds offer their services to the whole country