Being arrested can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the legal process. One question that often arises is whether it’s possible to bond yourself out of jail in Oklahoma. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the type of offense, the amount of bail set, and your financial situation. This article will explore the nuances of bonding yourself out of jail in Oklahoma, offering clear, factual information to guide you through the process
Understanding the Bail Process in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, when a person is arrested, they may be given the option to post bail. Bail is essentially a financial guarantee to the court that the defendant will appear for their scheduled court dates. The amount of bail is typically set by a judge during the arraignment, based on factors such as the severity of the offense, the defendant’s criminal history, and the likelihood of them fleeing before trial
Types of Bail in Oklahoma
- Cash Bail: This involves paying the full amount of the bail in cash. If you have the financial means, you can pay this amount yourself directly to the court or jail. Once your court obligations are fulfilled, the bail amount is returned to you, minus any court fees or fines
- Surety Bond: If you cannot afford to pay the full bail amount, you can opt for a surety bond, which involves working with a bail bondsman. The bail bondsman typically charges a non-refundable fee (usually 10% of the bail amount) to post the bond on your behalf. This fee is not returned, regardless of the outcome of the case
- Personal Recognizance (PR): In some cases, the judge may release a defendant on their own recognizance, meaning no bail money is required. The defendant simply agrees to appear in court as required
- Property Bond: Some jurisdictions in Oklahoma allow property bonds, where you can use real estate or other valuable assets as collateral for bail. The property must be worth at least the amount of the bail, and if you fail to appear in court, the property can be seized
Bonding Yourself Out of Jail
If you have been arrested and the court sets a cash bail, you may be able to bond yourself out if you have access to the necessary funds. This process involves paying the full bail amount directly to the jail or court. Once the payment is made, you will be released from custody with the understanding that you must attend all scheduled court appearances
However, if you do not have the full amount, you can still secure your release through other means:
Working with a Bail Bondsman
If you cannot afford the full bail amount, a bail bondsman can assist you. By paying a non-refundable fee (usually 10% of the bail amount), the bondsman will post the full bail on your behalf, allowing you to be released from jail. It’s important to note that the fee paid to the bondsman is non-refundable, and you are still required to meet all court obligations
Using a Credit Card or Savings
Some jails in Oklahoma may accept credit card payments for bail. This can be a quick way to post bail if you have a high enough credit limit. Similarly, if you have savings, you can use those funds to post bail. Keep in mind that if you post cash bail and meet all court obligations, the bail amount will be refunded after the case is resolved, minus any applicable fees
Factors That May Affect Your Ability to Bond Out
Several factors can influence whether you can bond yourself out of jail:
- Severity of the Charge: For more serious offenses, bail amounts may be set higher, making it more difficult to pay the full amount on your own
- Criminal History: If you have a prior criminal record, the judge may set a higher bail or deny bail altogether, depending on the nature of your past offenses
- Flight Risk: If the court believes you are a flight risk, they may set a higher bail or deny bail to ensure you appear for your court dates
- Financial Situation: Your ability to access funds quickly will directly impact whether you can bond yourself out. Without sufficient resources, you may need to rely on a bail bondsman or other financial assistance
What Happens After You Bond Out?
After bonding out of jail, it is crucial to follow all court requirements to avoid forfeiting your bail. This includes:
- Attending All Court Dates: Missing a court date can result in a warrant for your arrest and the forfeiture of any bail money paid
- Adhering to Bail Conditions: The court may impose certain conditions as part of your release, such as staying away from specific locations or individuals. Violating these conditions can lead to your re-arrest and forfeiture of bail
- Communicating with Your Attorney: Staying in close contact with your attorney is essential to ensure you are aware of all court dates and legal obligations
At Abraham’s Bail Bonds, we understand the complexities of the bail process in Oklahoma. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the system, whether you’re bonding yourself out or need assistance securing a bond. With over 60 years of experience, we provide prompt, trustworthy service to get you or your loved one out of jail quickly. Contact Abraham’s Bail Bonds or call at (214) 533-0716 today to learn how we can assist you during this challenging time