How Much Does a Bail Cost in Louisiana?
Bail is a sum of money paid to the court in order to secure the release of a person who has been arrested and charged with a crime. The amount of bail is set by the judge and is based on a number of factors, including the severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and the likelihood that they will flee before their trial.
In Louisiana, the amount of bail is typically set at 12% of the bond amount. For example, if the bond amount is $1,200, the bail would be $120. However, the judge may set a higher or lower bail amount based on the factors mentioned above.
If you are unable to pay the full amount of bail, you may be able to post a surety bond. A surety bond is a type of insurance policy that guarantees that you will appear for your trial. The cost of a surety bond is typically 12% of the bail amount.
If you are arrested and charged with a crime, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options and can help you get the bail amount reduced.
Factors Influencing Bail Amounts
Here are some additional factors that may affect the amount of bail:
- The defendant’s ties to the community
- The defendant’s employment history
- The defendant’s family situation
- The defendant’s mental health
The judge will consider all of these factors when setting the bail amount.
If you are unable to pay the bail amount, you may be able to get a bail reduction hearing. At a bail reduction hearing, you can ask the judge to reduce the bail amount. The judge will consider the same factors that they considered when setting the bail amount in the first place.
If the judge reduces the bail amount, you will be able to post bail and be released from jail. However, you will still be required to appear for your trial.
If you fail to appear for your trial, the court may issue a bench warrant for your arrest. A bench warrant is an order from the court that authorizes the police to arrest you. If you are arrested on a bench warrant, you will be taken to jail and held until your trial.
It is important to note that bail is not a guarantee that you will be found not guilty of the crime you have been charged with. Bail simply allows you to be released from jail while you await your trial.