Your fiancé's pre-wedding party got out of hand and now they're sitting in jail. You need to arrange for bail in a hurry but you're not sure how. Before you go off in search of a bail bond agent, here's five things that you should know.

What Is Bail?

If your loved one has been arrested and charged with a crime, they may have to pay bail before they can leave police custody. Bail is the amount of money that the court requires to ensure that a defendant will return for their court dates.

If the charges against your loved one aren't serious, their attorney may argue that bail should be reduced, or eliminated altogether. If the court agrees, the bail will be dropped and your loved one will be allowed out on their own recognizance.

What is s Bail Bond?

If your loved one is not able to be released on their own recognizance – and you can't afford to pay the full amount of the bail – you will need to obtain a bail bond for their release. To obtain a bail bond, you'll need to pay a bail bond agent from a place like Yusef Odeh Bail Bonds about 10% of the total bail amount in cash. The remaining amount can be provided in the form of collateral – real or personal property that's held by the bonding agent.

When Will You Get Your Money Back?

If you're going to be putting cash and collateral down for a bail bond, it's important to know that you won't have it returned until after the trial comes to a completion. This is the way the court and bail bonding agent guarantee that your loved one will attend all of their required court appearances.

Are There Any Rules That Your Loved One Must Follow?

While your loved one is out on bail, there will be rules that they must follow. For instance, as stated above, they'll be required to attend all court dates. They'll also be required to obey all laws. If there is a victim in the crime, they may be required to avoid contact with that person. The judge will inform your loved one of any additional rules at the bail hearing.

What Happens If Your Loved Breaks the Rules?

If your loved one breaks any of the rules, or flees to avoid prosecution, their bail may be revoked. This means that you will forfeit any money or property that you provided for that bond. In addition, a warrant for your loved one's arrest may be issued.

Your fiancé has been arrested. The information provided above will help you understand the bond process and what it means to you and your loved one.