Securing Freedom with Indiana Bail Bonds: A Look at the Process and Rules

Posted on November 24, 2023 by admin

In the complex world of the justice system, understanding the bail bond process can be a daunting task. Specifically, in the state of Indiana, the rules and procedures surrounding bail bonds are unique and worth exploring. This blog post aims to guide you through the intricate labyrinth of Indiana bail bonds.

Whether you’re dealing with a legal situation yourself, helping a loved one navigate their options, or simply curious about how the process works, this comprehensive insight will shed light on the role of bail bondsmen, the responsibilities of a bail bond company, and the specifics of the Indiana bail bond regulations. Let’s dive in and demystify the path to securing freedom following an arrest.

Call 317-876-9600 for Indiana Bail Bonds Service You Can Trust

What are Indiana Bail Bonds?

In simple terms, a bail bond is a financial agreement made between the court and an individual who has been arrested. This agreement allows the person to be released from jail pending their trial or court appearance. In essence, a bail bond acts as collateral to guarantee that the accused will appear in court when summoned. If they fail to do so, the bail bond is forfeited, and the court keeps the money.

The Role of Bail Bondsmen in Indiana

In Indiana, bail bond companies are regulated by the Department of Insurance. These businesses specialize in providing people with the necessary funds to post bail and secure their temporary release from jail. Bail bondsmen play a crucial role in this process as they are the ones who post the bail on behalf of their clients. You may have heard that these agents charge a fee for their services, which is typically 10% of the total bail amount. This fee is non-refundable and covers the risk taken by the bail bond company in securing your release.

The Process of Obtaining an Indiana Bail Bond

The first step in posting bail in Indiana is finding a reputable and licensed bail bond service. Once you have chosen a company, the bail bondsman will assess your eligibility for a bond by considering factors such as your criminal record, ties to the community, and financial stability. If approved, you will be required to sign an agreement stating that you will return to court when summoned and adhere to any other conditions set by the court. The bail bondsman will then post the bail, and you will be released from jail.

Indiana Bail Bond Regulations

In Indiana, there are specific rules that both the bail bond company and the individual posting bail must follow. For example, if a defendant fails to appear in court, the bail bond agency has 180 days to locate and return the individual to court before the bond is forfeited. Additionally, a bail bondsman cannot solicit business from an arrested individual, nor can they offer discounts or incentives for their services. It’s essential to understand these regulations to ensure a smooth process and avoid any potential legal issues.

In Summary

Above all else, understanding Indiana bail bonds is crucial in navigating the justice system and securing your freedom or that of a loved one. The process can be complex, but with the guidance of a reputable bail bond company and knowledge of the regulations, it becomes much more manageable. Keep in mind that bail bonds are not always required for release from jail, but they offer a valuable option for those who cannot afford to pay their full bail amount upfront. We hope this blog post has provided you with valuable insight into the process and rules surrounding Indiana bail bonds. Remember to stay informed, seek legal advice if necessary, and always fulfill your obligations when posting bail.

So remember, don’t panic if faced with a legal situation in Indiana – there are options available to help secure your freedom. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for trusted 24 hour bail bond services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve over 30 counties throughout the state. Request a free estimate or information, anytime.

The Top 4 Crimes That Will Not Allow Bail

Posted on November 20, 2018 by admin

The 8th Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees defendants the right to not be subjected to excessive bail. However, there are exceptions to every rule, and in extreme cases, a defendant’s right to bail is denied altogether. This generally happens when a crime is severe. There are various types of crimes that will influence a judge or police station to dismiss bail rights, but the top four that take the list are of the most extreme.

Continue reading to learn which crimes will not allow a defendant to post bail.

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Level of Offense

When a person is arrested on criminal charges, they will face a variety of possible convictions and penalties. Depending on the severity of the crime, charges can be simple infractions, misdemeanors, or felony offenses. Once charged with a particular level of offense, a judge will decide how much to set bail for the defendant, if at all. ‘

Although bail is a fundamental U.S. citizen right, in extreme cases, a judge will decide that a defendant is not eligible for bail. When making this consideration, a judge takes into account several factors, primarily whether or not the defendant’s release will compromise the safety of the community.

Capitol Felony Offenses

Capitol felony offenses are the most common types of charges that deny bail privileges to a defendant. These include crimes that are dangerous and harmful to others. Sentencing and bail considerations vary from state to state, but in virtually all states, these 4 crimes will not permit a defendant to a release from custody:

➀ Arson

Indiana Code Section 35-43-1-1 defines a perpetrator of arson as, “An individual (by means of fire, explosive, or destructive device) knowingly or intentionally damages property.” Arson is a Level 4 Felony in most cases, but can sometimes fall into higher level felonies if bodily injury occurs. Arson is a Level 6 Felony or there was an attempt to defraud. Depending on the actual circumstances of the crime, arson can be punishable by up to 30 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.

➁ Rape

According to Indiana Code Title 35, Article 42, Chapter 4: Sex Crimes, rape is a Level 3 felony, unless aggravating factors exist. “Aggravating factors” mostly means that the rape involved date rape drugs, or the use of deadly force or weapon that caused serious bodily injury. In the case of aggravated rape, the defendant would be charged with a Level 1 felony. Depending on the actual circumstances of the crime, rape can be punishable by up to 40 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.

➂ Murder

In Indiana, any convicted of a murder charge will face automatic sentencing, which generally falls between 45 and 65 years in prison. In the case of murder with aggravating circumstances, one can expect the death sentence or life in prison without the possibility of parole.

➃ Kidnapping

Indiana Code 35-42-3-2 describes the crime of kidnapping as, “A person who knowingly or intentionally removes another person, by fraud, enticement, force, or threat of force, from one place to another commits kidnapping.” Kidnapping is a Level 6 felony unless certain factors are present, such as using a vehicle or plane to commit the crime, if the victim is less than 14 years old and not the child of the kidnapper, the crime results in bodily injury to another person other than the victim, if a deadly weapon or force was used to commit the crime, if ransom was requested, and more.

Indiana Bail Bonds

Indianapolis Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Call Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for safe and secure Indianapolis bail bonds you can trust. We also offer prearranged bail bond services for those needing to surrender to an arrest warrant. In some cases, we can get you turned in and released in as little as one hour. And don’t forget that right now, we are offering 8% bail bonds! Request a free estimate or jail information, anytime.

FAQS about Indiana Bail Bonds

Posted on September 11, 2017 by admin

If you have questions about the bail bond process and the cost to obtain such services, you are in the right spot. Just continue reading to get some helpful answers to your bail bond questions.

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How Much Does a Bail Bond Cost?

Bail bonds require a non-refundable payment called a bail bond premium. Across the country, the standard rate for bail bonds is 10 to 15 percent of a defendant’s total bond amount. But at Woods Bail Bonds, we offer 8% bail bonds in all Indiana counties!

Here’s an example for a $5,000 bond:

Total Bond Amount = $5000
15% Bail Bond Fee = $750
10% Bail Bond Fee = $500
8% Bail Bond Fee = $400

How is a Bond Amount Set?

A defendant’s bond amount is fixed by the court in the county of the charges. It is dependent on several factors, including the severity of the charges, criminal history, flight risk, and more.

What Does it Mean to Be “Booked” or “Processed” in Jail?

Once a defendant is arrested, they are transported to the nearest county jail. When they arrive, they must wait their turn to be “booked and processed” by jail staff. Depending on a number of factors (sobriety, behavior, jail traffic, number of staff available, etc.), this process can take anywhere from one hour to 24 hours or more. Upon good behavior and sobriety, the booking process can begin. It generally includes:

✒ Confiscation and Cataloguing of Personal Belongings
✒ Weapons Check
✒ Warrant Check
✒ Background Check
✒ Finger Printing
✒ Mug Shot
✒ Jail Database Entry of Defendant’s Profile
✒ And More

Can I Be Denied a Bail Bond?

There are two circumstances in which a defendant could not obtain a bail bond. First, they can be denied bond by the court as a result of their criminal history or severity of charges. In this situation, the defendant must wait in jail until their initial court hearing, where they could be ordered back to jail or granted the right to bail. On the other hand, even if a court sets a defendant’s bond, they can be denied service by a bail bond company if they are considered a flight risk, or have a history of “skipping” bail.

What Information Do I Need to Bail Someone Out of Jail?

If you are assuming the responsibility of signing for a friend or loved one’s bail bond, you are taking on a very serious legally-binding obligation. In order to expedite the process, you will need to gather the following information to give to your bail bondsman:

✒ Full Name
✒ Booking Number
✒ County of Arrest
✒ Arrest Charges
✒ Bond Amount

Who is Liable for a Bail Bond?

The co-signer, or indemnitor, is responsible for the full face value of the bail bond, which is the total bond amount. So if a defendant’s bond is set at $5,000 and you co-sign for their bail, if they do not appear for court you will be legally-bound to pay the entire $5,000 or face legal penalties yourself. This is why it is so important to only co-sign bail bond agreements for close friends and family, or people you know you can trust. Never sign for a person you have just met or only known for a short while.

Can I Get a Refund for a Bail Bond?

No; once the bond is posted and accepted by the court or county jail, liability is taken on the bail bond. Since this means the bail bond premium is fully earned, there is no possibility of a refund. The only way the cost of a bail bond is refunded is if the bail agent makes an error that inhibits them from providing their service. Keep in mind that this rarely ever happens.

What is Collateral?

Collateral might be required by a bail bond company under special circumstances, but usually it is not necessary. Collateral can be money, assets, property, and more. The collateral is held until the bail bond is exonerated and the premium is paid in full.

Where Can I Find Indiana Bail Bonds I Can Trust?

Woods Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Call Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for prompt and professional bail bond services in Indiana. Owner, James Woods, and his team of licensed and insured bail agents, provide 24 hour bail bonds in over 30 Indiana counties. Regardless of time, day, or city, we can get you out of jail fast, and for as low as 8% of your total bond!