Can the person be released from jail right away?

The typical lawyer answer: it depends.

A bond schedule is a tool used by law enforcement and jail staff. It tells them which crimes have a “pre-set” price for release. However, many people are not eligible for immediate release and must stay in jail until they attend an Advisory Hearing before a judge.

A person must be held in jail until they see a judge if:

• They were already on probation or pretrial release for a felony
• They have been arrested three or more times in the last six months
• The charge is a serious crime such as robbery, domestic violence, burglary, or child abuse
• They are a designated sexual offender or predator
• They have failed to appear for court in the past while out on bail

How Much Will the Bond Be?

If the person is eligible for immediate release, the amount of the bond depends on the type of charge. Remember, if someone is charged with multiple crimes, they must pay a separate bond for each crime.

Note: Certain charges, such as felony driving offenses or failing to register, always require a hearing with no immediate bond.

Important Reminders

• The Schedule is a Guide: A judge is not forced to use these amounts. They can lower the bond, raise it, or release someone on their "own recognizance" (for free) after hearing the facts of the case.
• Rules of Release: Anyone released on bond must stay away from further criminal activity, have no contact with the victim if there is one for the case, and follow any other conditions of bond set by the judge, which can include GPS monitoring, alcohol monitoring, and random drug screens.

How an Attorney Can Help