Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to your bail bond questions
Everything You Need to Know About Bail Bonds
At 21 Bail Bonds, we understand that navigating the bail process can be confusing and overwhelming. Below are answers to the most common questions we receive. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to call us at (336) 895-2021 – we’re here to help 24/7.
General Bail Bond Questions
What is a bail bond?
A bail bond is a financial guarantee that ensures a defendant will appear in court for their scheduled hearings. When someone is arrested, a judge sets a bail amount. Instead of paying the full amount to the court, you can work with a bail bond company like 21 Bail Bonds. We post the full bail amount with the court on your behalf in exchange for a fee (typically 10-15% of the total bail amount in North Carolina).
How does the bail bond process work?
When you contact 21 Bail Bonds, we’ll gather information about the defendant and the charges. You’ll pay a percentage of the total bail amount as our fee, and we’ll post the full bail with the court. The defendant is then released and must appear at all court dates. Once the case is resolved and all court appearances are completed, the bail bond is discharged. Our fee is non-refundable as it covers our services and risk.
Who can get a bail bond?
Most people who have been arrested and had bail set by a judge can obtain a bail bond. However, certain factors may affect eligibility, including the severity of charges, criminal history, flight risk assessment, and ties to the community. Some serious charges may result in no bail being granted. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.
What’s the difference between bail and bond?
Bail is the amount of money set by the court that must be paid for a defendant’s release. A bond is what you pay to a bail bond company to post that bail on your behalf. For example, if bail is set at $10,000, you would pay a bail bond company approximately $1,000-$1,500 (10-15%) as the bond fee, and the company posts the full $10,000 with the court.
Payment & Costs
How much does a bail bond cost?
Bail bond fees in North Carolina typically range from 10-15% of the total bail amount set by the court. For example, if bail is set at $5,000, you would pay between $500-$750 to the bail bond company. The exact percentage depends on various factors including the type of charges and the defendant’s criminal history. We offer competitive rates and flexible payment options.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes! We understand that unexpected legal expenses can be difficult to manage. We offer flexible payment plans with affordable down payments and monthly installments. Our goal is to make bail bonds accessible to everyone. Contact us at (336) 895-2021 to discuss a payment plan that works for your budget.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept multiple forms of payment for your convenience, including cash, all major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), bank transfers, and in some cases, collateral such as property or vehicles. We’ll work with you to find the payment method that works best for your situation.
Will I get my money back?
The fee you pay to the bail bond company is non-refundable, as it covers our services and the risk we take by posting your bail. However, if you paid the full bail amount directly to the court (without using a bail bond company), that money would typically be returned after the case concludes, minus any court fees or fines.
What is collateral and when is it required?
Collateral is an asset (like property, vehicles, jewelry, or other valuables) that secures the bail bond. It’s not always required, but may be necessary for high bail amounts or in cases where the defendant is considered higher risk. If collateral is used and the defendant appears for all court dates, the collateral is returned. We’ll clearly explain if collateral is needed in your case.
The Bail Bond Process
What information do you need to get started?
To begin the bail bond process, we’ll need the defendant’s full name, date of birth, the jail or detention center where they’re being held, the charges filed against them, and the bail amount set by the court. We’ll also need information about the co-signer (the person securing the bond), including employment and residence details. Don’t worry – we’ll walk you through everything over the phone.
How long does the bail bond process take?
Once we have all the necessary information and payment arrangements are made, we can typically post bail within 1-3 hours. However, the actual release time depends on the detention facility’s processing procedures, which can vary. Some facilities release defendants more quickly than others. We work as fast as possible to expedite the process and keep you informed every step of the way.
Can I get someone out of jail on the weekend or at night?
Absolutely! 21 Bail Bonds is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays. Legal emergencies don’t happen on a schedule, and neither do we. Call us anytime at (336) 895-2021 for immediate assistance, no matter when you need us.
What happens after someone is released on bail?
After release, the defendant must comply with all court-ordered conditions, which may include travel restrictions, check-ins with a pretrial services officer, and staying out of legal trouble. Most importantly, they must appear at ALL scheduled court dates. Missing a court date can result in the bail being revoked, a warrant being issued, and the co-signer being responsible for the full bail amount.
What are my responsibilities as a co-signer?
As a co-signer (also called an indemnitor), you’re responsible for ensuring the defendant appears at all court dates. You’re also financially responsible if the defendant fails to appear – you could be liable for the full bail amount plus any costs incurred in locating and returning the defendant to custody. It’s important to maintain contact with both the defendant and our office throughout the legal process.
Timing & Release
How quickly can someone be released from jail?
Release time varies depending on several factors including the detention facility’s processing time, how busy the jail is, and what time of day bail is posted. Generally, once we post bail, release can take anywhere from 2-8 hours. We’ll stay in contact with you and provide updates throughout the process. Some facilities are faster than others, and weekends or holidays may take longer.
Why does it take so long for someone to be released?
After bail is posted, the detention facility must complete several administrative processes including verifying the bail bond paperwork, processing the release documentation, returning personal property, and completing final checks. Larger facilities or busy times can result in longer waits. While we post bail quickly, we have no control over the jail’s internal processing time.
Can bail be posted before the defendant goes to court?
In most cases, bail must first be set by a judge before a bail bond can be posted. This typically happens at an initial appearance or arraignment hearing, usually within 24-48 hours of arrest. However, some jurisdictions have preset bail schedules for certain offenses. Once bail is set, we can begin the process immediately. Call us right away so we’re ready to act as soon as bail is determined.
What if the defendant misses a court date?
Missing a court date is extremely serious. The court will issue a warrant for the defendant’s arrest (called a bench warrant), and the bail bond will be in jeopardy. The co-signer may become responsible for the full bail amount. If you or the defendant realizes a court date was missed, contact us immediately – sometimes the situation can be remedied quickly if addressed right away. We strongly encourage all defendants to appear at every court date without exception.
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help 24/7. Give us a call anytime for answers to your specific situation.
(336) 895-2021