It is not uncommon for magistrates to set bail at an amount that is higher than you can afford to pay out of pocket. This is where a reputable Martinsville bail bond company comes into play, offering their services in exchange for a premium payment that is a small percentage of the total bail amount. But did you know that you can request bail reduction if you feel like the bail amount is unreasonably high? It’s true and in today’s post, we’ll review a few of the steps involved in requesting a bail reduction motion. Read on to learn more and then contact Affordable Bail Bonding to get the bail bond process started today.
Getting a Motion to Reduce Bail
Determine the Need for Reduction
The premium for bail bonds in Martinsville is 10% of the total bail amount. If paying that places a financial burden on you or your loved one who is helping you, then it may be helpful to request a reduction. Likewise, if you feel like the bail amount is unreasonably high given your charges, it doesn’t hurt to request a reduction. You can request a bail reduction during your arraignment, which is typically within a day or two of your arrest.
Consider Hiring Representation
If you decide that you need to request a bail reduction, you might want to consider hiring an attorney who has experience in this area. As with any other type of legal proceeding, bail reduction motions require a lot of paperwork and include several filing requirements. Many individuals find it easiest to rely on experienced legal counsel to help them navigate the process.
Build a Strong Case
A bail reduction attorney will also help you build a strong case for yourself. The judge will consider a variety of factors during the hearing including your charges, your criminal record, your family ties, and your community involvement. It may be helpful to focus on these areas and gather the necessary documentation like pay stubs, W2s, and tax records to support your case.
Locate Your Biggest Supporters
When it comes to something as significant as getting bail reduced, you want to be sure that you have a village in your corner to support you. Locating friends, family, coworkers, supervisors, and anyone else who can vouch for your character is a good way to substantiate your reduction request. If they are willing to do so, ask your supporters to provide written and/or verbal testimony that establishes you as an individual of good character who is a productive member of your local community.
File the Motion
Once you have gathered your supporting documentation, have a list of willing supporters, and done everything else you need to do to build your case, the only thing left to do is file the actual motion for bail reduction. If you have an attorney, they can draft it up and file it on your behalf. An experienced attorney will be sure to list all key factors in the case so there is no guesswork involved for the judge. Once your motion is filed with the Henry county clerk, your case will be assigned a court date.
Be Sure to Attend the Reduction Hearing
As you wait for your court date to arrive, it will be helpful to come up with your supporting argument. The judge will likely ask you why you feel like you deserve a bail reduction and you want to have a very clear and detailed response prepared. You don’t want to waste the judge’s time and you don’t want to jeopardize all of the work you and your lawyer have done up until this point. This should go without saying, but be sure to attend you bail reduction hearing. Nothing shows a lack of responsibility and trustworthiness like skipping a court date and it can be very detrimental to your case.
Questions About Bail Bonds in Martinsville?
Do you have questions about the bail bond process in Martinsville? If so, the experienced bondsmen at Affordable Bail Bonding are here to help. We’ll walk you through the process of obtaining a bail bond to help you reclaim your freedom quickly so that you can do what you need to do to prepare for trial. Contact us today to learn more about our services.