The rise of pretrial release programs is reducing the demand for bail bonds, shifting the way courts handle defendants before trial.

Here’s how these practices are impacting the bail bond industry…

Fewer Defendants Needing Bail Bonds

Pretrial release programs allow defendants to be released without paying bail, reducing the need for bail bondsmen.
Many jurisdictions eliminate or reduce cash bail for low-level, non-violent offenses, leading to fewer customers for the bail bond industry.
Risk-based assessments now determine if someone is eligible for release instead of relying on their ability to pay bail.

More Strict Regulations on Bail Bonds

Some states are introducing laws to limit bail bond practices, such as capping fees or requiring income-based bail amounts.
Advertising bans on bail bonds (in courthouses, jails, and online platforms) make it harder for bondsmen to attract clients.
In some states, judges must consider non-monetary release options first before setting bail, reducing the role of bail bonds.

Shift Towards Government-Supported Pretrial Services

Courts are expanding pretrial services such as court reminders, ankle monitoring, and supervised release, eliminating the need for bail.
Electronic monitoring and check-in programs help ensure defendants return to court without requiring bail money.

States Phasing Out or Eliminating Cash Bail

Illinois abolished cash bail in 2023, ending the need for commercial bail bonds in the state.
New York and New Jersey drastically reduced the use of cash bail for most non-violent offenders.
Other states, such as California, have attempted to eliminate cash bail but faced pushback from voters and industry advocates.

Bail Bondsmen Adapting to Stay in Business

Some bondsmen offer financing plans for those who still need bail.
Others are shifting toward private investigation, bounty hunting, or legal support services.
In some states, bail bondsmen are lobbying against pretrial reforms, arguing that cash bail ensures accountability and protects public safety.

Bottom Line

Pretrial release programs are making bail bonds less necessary, especially for non-violent offenses.
Bail bond businesses are losing customers, leading to industry-wide decline in some states.
Some bondsmen are adapting, while others are fighting against bail reform efforts.