DALE CARSON LAW

In Florida when someone is detained and imprisoned in jail, they can, in most cases, post bond. The main purpose of posting bond is twofold. First, it is to ensure the safety of the community. Second, to make sure that the defendant will appear in court as scheduled. The bond serves as a guarantee to the court that the defendant will not leave the jurisdiction and will follow all court orders.

When a judge is determining the amount of the bond, the judge will take into consideration many different factors. For example, they will consider the ties of the defendant to the community, such as family, employment, and the situation of housing. Additionally, they will consider the defendant’s former criminal record. These factors help the judge to decide about the amount of the bond which does both: protect the community and not limit the defendant’s ability to meet their court obligations.

Once the judge decides on the bond amount, the defendant can get out of jail by either paying the cash bond in full or hiring a bail bondsman. Bail bondsman usually charge a fee of 10% of the total bond. The defendant, who can be released from the jail after paying bond, will be directed to follow court orders during this time. The bond system therefore becomes an indispensable mechanism for public security, as well as, respecting the right of the defendant to liberty before the court case is heard.