If you are in jail, bail bonds can help you get out. Unfortunately, there are many situations where you can end up locked up. The more time you spend in jail, the longer you will be away from friends, family, and work. Paying bail is a way to get back to your routine as you await your day in court. However, bail can be pricey, especially if the charges are serious. Jail bail bonds can help you get out of jail when you can't afford the entire bail amount. Here's what to know. 

How They Work

Bail bonds are financial guarantees made by a jail bail bondsman to a court that you will show up to your court appearances. The bondsman takes care of your total bail amount, you are released, and then you are supposed to show up for your court dates. If you do not show up, you may lose any collateral you put up to get the bail bond, a warrant may be put out for your arrest, and the bail bond company may send a representative to locate you. 

Where To Get Them

If you cannot afford bail or borrow the sum from your friend or family member, a bail bond will be your best bet. There are plenty of bail bondsmen and bail bond companies to consider, and finding the best fit is challenging. Rules and regulations for bail bonds also vary depending on the state. Shop around and look at different bail bond agents and companies before committing. Search for a bondsman with a good reputation, and that can provide you with the bond amount you need. 

How Much They Cost

Knowing how much you will pay for a bail bond is also vital. The cost of a bail bond depends on your bail amount and whether your state has a cap on how much a bail bondsman can charge. Felony charges tend to come with higher bail amounts than lesser charges. On average, a bail bond will cost 10 percent of the total cost of the bail. You will not get this money back. In some cases, you may be able to put up your property as collateral to obtain a bail bond. 

There are a few things to keep in mind if you need a bail bond. First, you need to understand how bail bonds work before seeking one out. Second, you can obtain a bail bond from a bail bond company or a bail bond agent. Finally, you will usually pay around 10 percent of the total cost of the bail to obtain the bond.

For more information on jail bail bonds, contact a professional near you.