What Happens If Someone Can’t Pay Their Bond?
If someone can’t afford bail, they may face several options and consequences…
Stay in Jail Until Trial
- If bail isn’t paid, the defendant remains in custody until their court date.
- Depending on the case, this could mean days, weeks, or even months in jail.
Seek a Bail Reduction
- The defense attorney can request a bail hearing to argue for a lower bail amount.
- Judges may reduce bail for non-violent offenses or financial hardship.
Use a Bail Bondsman
- A bail bondsman can post bail for a non-refundable 10% fee (e.g., $500 for a $5,000 bond).
- Some bondsmen offer payment plans or accept collateral.
Look Into Pretrial Release Programs
- Some jurisdictions offer pretrial services for low-risk defendants, allowing release without bail.
- These may include court check-ins, electronic monitoring, or supervised release.
Seek Assistance from Bail Funds
- Some nonprofits and charities help pay bail for low-income defendants.
- Bail funds primarily assist minor offenses and first-time offenders.
Bottom Line
If bail isn’t paid, the defendant stays in jail, but options like bail reduction, payment plans, pretrial release, or bail funds may help.
