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Tips To Help Minimize The Financial Strain Caused By Arrests

Getting arrested and put behind bars is a shocking and overwhelming event that will cause millions of thoughts to rush through your head. For starters, you may be thinking about the actions that lead to your arrest and what sort of repercussions it will bring on your life. Another thought that may be racing through your mind is what financial complications will come from the arrest. Even wrongful arrests can put a dent in your finances.

Whether you or a loved one is arrested, keep in mind the following tips to help minimize the financial strain that can come from an arrest. 

Tip #1: Get Out of Jail Fast

Once someone is arrested and booked, a bail will be posted, depending on their alleged crime. Those who pose a threat to the safety of the community or have an unlikeness to appear for future hearings may be held without bail. Once a bail amount is posted, paying it off quickly is the best way to get out of jail as soon as possible. If you do not have the flexibility in your budget to pay the bail fee, you can always utilize bail bond services. When you work with a bail bond company to get out of jail, you typically only have to pay a small percentage. 

The longer you stay in jail the higher the chances are that your arrest can hurt your career. Spending too much time in jail can lead to too many missed workdays, which can lead to termination. For those who live paycheck to paycheck especially, as well as those that have a family to care for, getting out of jail fast is crucial!

Tip #2: Work With An Experienced Lawyer

With most arrests, you will need to hire a lawyer to defend you in your case. When people don’t have a preferred lawyer, their first instinct is to immediately hire the most affordable lawyer they can find. However, in many cases, it is important to look at the long-term picture rather than the short-term costs associated with hiring a lawyer. Those who work with experienced lawyers that have handled a variety of cases and clients are more likely to help you effectively plead your charges down. Ideally, the accused want these charges to be as minimal as possible, especially if your original charges were felonies. Pleading a felony down to a misdemeanor is an effective way to lessen the amount of time that you spend in jail and any fines that you have to pay. Additionally, should any additional convictions take place in the future, having misdemeanors on your criminal record as opposed to felonies will also lessen the severity of your future sentencing.

Tip #3: Be Cautious of Who You Share Information With

If you aren’t careful about who you share details about your arrest and charges with, you may be faced with severe ramifications on many aspects of your life, including your career — even talking to co-workers can have a severe negative impact on your future with the company. For best practice, try to avoid bringing the news of your arrest to light at work and cover it with a personal or family issue while you get your defense sorted.

Tip #4: Consider Bail Bond Financing

Bringing things back to bail bonds, opting for financing or bail bond payment plans can help ease the financial burden of an arrest. Bail is an unexpected expense, but fortunately, many bail bond companies offer special financing options. Keep in mind, however, that since the nature of each case and the circumstances of each defendant are unique unto them, the financing or payment plan terms will likely differ. If you want to learn about the available financing plans, it is best to contact your local bail bondsman.

Get Out of Jail Fast, Contact The Danville Bondsmen at Affordable Bail Bonding

If you are in need of a bail bond company in Danville, VA, or the surrounding areas, you can rely on the experts at Affordable Bail Bonding! With no cosigner required, available financing options, and fast, reliable, and non-judgmental services, we have established a reputation as one of the best bail bond companies in Western Virginia. For more information, contact us!

Factors That Affect Bail Amounts For Drug Charges

The drug laws in the state of Virginia are notoriously strict. The sale, transport, and importation of an illegal substance are viewed as a severe crime. Getting convicted of drug trafficking or for possession of a controlled substance likely will come along with a potentially lengthy prison sentence. In addition to the strict laws and sentencing guidelines for drug possession and distribution, the bail bond requirements for these drug-related charges are also pretty severe. 

If you have a loved one that has been arrested for a drug-related charge and is relying on you to help them with paying for bail, you likely have a lot of thoughts, questions, and concerns racing through your head. Of all the things, you likely will wonder how much the posted bail amount will be and what the bail bond process will look like. In today’s blog, we will share some key considerations to keep in mind when dealing with bail for drug charges. 

Factors That Affect Bail Amounts For Drug Charges

After being arrested and booked for the distribution or possession of drugs, or any other drug-related charges for that matter, a judge will determine the amount that will be posted for bail. When setting bail, judges look at numerous factors such as the criminal history of the person charged with the crime and whether or not they are viewed as a threat to the safety of the community. Additionally, though, there are factors of the actual drug-related charge that will impact the amount set for bail. The following factors can impact the bail amount for those sentenced to jail due to drug-related crime.

The Type of Drug

As you would expect, more serious illegal drugs come with more serious charges and sentencing. To give you a better idea of the different classes of illegal substances, continue reading below:

  • Schedule I Drugs: Drugs, substances, or chemicals are defined by the federal government as Schedule I drugs. These drugs are not accepted medical use and have a high potential for abuse. Examples include Marijuana, Heroin, LSD, and Ecstasy.
  • Schedule II Drugs: Any drugs substances or chemicals that are defined as Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse, however it is less than Schedule I. Examples include Cocaine, Methamphetamine, and Oxycodone.
  • Schedule III, IV & V: Drugs that are categorized into these classes have a lower potential for abuse as well as a lower potential for physical and psychological dependence. Examples of these drugs include Ketamine, Xanax, or Ambien. 

Quantity of Drugs in Possession

Any amount of a possessed drug that has not been legalized is illegal, however, the quantity of the drug in a person’s possession is an important factor. To give you an example, possession of marijuana is illegal in the state of Virginia. However, having an ounce of marijuana will come with more severe penalties than having a couple of grams would. As a result, the bail amount for a ounce of marijuana is likely to be higher than it would be for a smaller amount. 

Accompanying Charges 

When facing more than just drug trafficking, drug possession, or other drug-related charges, it is common for defendants to receive a higher bail. The reason for this is that judges must assess each charge individually. For example, if one charge has a $10,000 bail minimum and another charge has a $20,000, both bail amounts will be factored in when determining what the total bail request is — remember, the more severe the additional charges, the higher the bail will be.

Flight Risk Label

Another factor that impacts bail is whether or not the defendant is a flight risk. If someone faces flight risk, it means that they have a history of not returning to court when required or has given the judge a reason to believe they may try to leave the area before they are convicted. Being a flight risk is often a reason for bail denial, but if rewarded, the bail amount will likely be set at a higher amount.

Need Bail Bonds in Danville For A Drug Possession Charge?

Whatever causes the arrest of a loved one, it is never easy seeing them in jail. If bail is posted and you want to help them get out of jail fast, you can trust Affordable Bail Bonding. If you are interested in learning more, contact us!

Things to Know About Misdemeanors in Virginia

While a less serious offense than a felony, negative implications can still come from being charged with a misdemeanor. Like all other crimes, a misdemeanor conviction can impact the rest of your life. It will likely show up on background checks which can make it difficult to get certain jobs, qualify for loans, and even get access to housing. To give you a better idea of misdemeanors and how they can affect your life, here are four things to know about a misdemeanor offense in Virginia. 

The Various Types of Misdemeanors

As mentioned, misdemeanors are less serious than a felony. They are, however, still a criminal charge that is punishable with fines and jail time. Types of misdemeanors include vandalism, trespassing, or public intoxication, and are actions that can land you in legal trouble in the state of Virginia. Misdemeanors can be broken down into four different classes:

  • Class 1 Misdemeanors. Class one misdemeanors are the most serious of the three classes. A class one misdemeanor is punishable by up to 12 months of jail time, up to $2,500 in fines, or both. Examples of these crimes include DUIs, petit larceny, and assault and battery.
  • Class 2 Misdemeanors. Class two misdemeanors are punishable by up to six months behind bars, fines up to $1,000, or both. Examples of class two misdemeanors include driving without a license, possession of Schedule IV substances — such as Xanax® or Valium® — or displaying a fake or falsified vehicle permit. 
  • Class 3 & 4 Misdemeanors. Three and four class misdemeanors are the least serious and are punishable with fines, but not with time in jail. Class three misdemeanors are punishable by fines up to $500. Class four misdemeanors have fines that are half the amount of class three at $250. Examples of offenses that would be categorized into these classes include willful misconduct, violating custody terms, and public intoxication. 

Keep in mind that the offenses listed above, along with their potential sentenced jail time, and fines, serve only as examples. The penalty for any type of misdemeanor depends solely on the judge’s ruling. 

Be Aware of the Potential Bail Amounts

When a crime requires jail time, there is a chance to get released on bail. The amount of bail that is posted for your arrest often depends on age, previous charges, criminal history, and any recent history of previous criminal charges but showing up to the set court date. Even with these factors, the bail amount for misdemeanors is more often than not less than the bail amount for a felony would be. 

Understand What Happens When Bail Is Posted

Part of the arrest process involves posting a bail amount that is set by the judge. If someone behind bars wants to get out of jail fast, they or someone they know on their behalf can pay the posted amount. If the bail is too high and not affordable, you can always get the money through a reputable bail bondsman. When the bail amount is paid, you get to get out of jail, and can try to carry on with life until the set court date. While the best bail bond companies will ultimately hold you responsible, ultimately, your responsibility is to make sure you show up to your court hearing. By appearing in court, you are more likely to get a reduced sentence, and your bail could get reduced as well. Missing court can result in a warrant for your arrest.

Know Which Bail Bond Company to Contact

When misdemeanors require jail time, it is important to work with the best bail bond company, especially for those that want to get out of jail fast. When choosing a bail bondsman to work with, you should look for someone that is experienced, licensed, and available 24/7. If you need help finding the best bail bondsmen in your area, check out these helpful tips. 

Need A Bail Bond Company in Amherst? Choose Affordable Bail Bonding

If you are looking for a reputable bail bond company, you can turn to Affordable Bail Bonding. For many years, our licensed, experienced agents will walk you through the bail bond process so you know what to expect. For a free consultation, contact us!

Things to Know About Misdemeanors in Virginia

While a less serious offense than a felony, negative implications can still come from being charged with a misdemeanor. Like all other crimes, a misdemeanor conviction can impact the rest of your life. It will likely show up on background checks which can make it difficult to get certain jobs, qualify for loans, and even get access to housing. To give you a better idea of misdemeanors and how they can affect your life, here are four things to know about a misdemeanor offense in Virginia. 

The Various Types of Misdemeanors

As mentioned, misdemeanors are less serious than a felony. They are, however, still a criminal charge that is punishable with fines and jail time. Types of misdemeanors include vandalism, trespassing, or public intoxication, and are actions that can land you in legal trouble in the state of Virginia. Misdemeanors can be broken down into four different classes:

  • Class 1 Misdemeanors. Class one misdemeanors are the most serious of the three classes. A class one misdemeanor is punishable by up to 12 months of jail time, up to $2,500 in fines, or both. Examples of these crimes include DUIs, petit larceny, and assault and battery.
  • Class 2 Misdemeanors. Class two misdemeanors are punishable by up to six months behind bars, fines up to $1,000, or both. Examples of class two misdemeanors include driving without a license, possession of Schedule IV substances — such as Xanax® or Valium® — or displaying a fake or falsified vehicle permit. 
  • Class 3 & 4 Misdemeanors. Three and four class misdemeanors are the least serious and are punishable with fines, but not with time in jail. Class three misdemeanors are punishable by fines up to $500. Class four misdemeanors have fines that are half the amount of class three at $250. Examples of offenses that would be categorized into these classes include willful misconduct, violating custody terms, and public intoxication. 

Keep in mind that the offenses listed above, along with their potential sentenced jail time, and fines, serve only as examples. The penalty for any type of misdemeanor depends solely on the judge’s ruling. 

Be Aware of the Potential Bail Amounts

When a crime requires jail time, there is a chance to get released on bail. The amount of bail that is posted for your arrest often depends on age, previous charges, criminal history, and any recent history of previous criminal charges but showing up to the set court date. Even with these factors, the bail amount for misdemeanors is more often than not less than the bail amount for a felony would be. 

Understand What Happens When Bail Is Posted

Part of the arrest process involves posting a bail amount that is set by the judge. If someone behind bars wants to get out of jail fast, they or someone they know on their behalf can pay the posted amount. If the bail is too high and not affordable, you can always get the money through a reputable bail bondsman. When the bail amount is paid, you get to get out of jail, and can try to carry on with life until the set court date. While the best bail bond companies will ultimately hold you responsible, ultimately, your responsibility is to make sure you show up to your court hearing. By appearing in court, you are more likely to get a reduced sentence, and your bail could get reduced as well. Missing court can result in a warrant for your arrest.

Know Which Bail Bond Company to Contact

When misdemeanors require jail time, it is important to work with the best bail bond company, especially for those that want to get out of jail fast. When choosing a bail bondsman to work with, you should look for someone that is experienced, licensed, and available 24/7. If you need help finding the best bail bondsmen in your area, check out these helpful tips. 

Need A Bail Bond Company in Amherst? Choose Affordable Bail Bonding

If you are looking for a reputable bail bond company, you can turn to Affordable Bail Bonding. For many years, our licensed, experienced agents will walk you through the bail bond process so you know what to expect. For a free consultation, contact us!

Reasons To Use A Bail Bond Company Instead of Paying Bail Yourself

You are sitting at home on a relaxing evening when your phone rings. You answer the phone to an automated message saying that you are receiving a call from the county jail. After accepting, you are joined with a close friend or family member that has been arrested and needs your help posting bail. After hearing this news, your head is rushing with questions and worry, but as the initial shock sets in, you pull yourself together to figure out the important information you need to know to help them post bail and get out of jail fast!

We get it, getting a call from a loved one who has been arrested can come at the least expected time. When they rely on you to help them with posting bail and you accept, you typically have two options to come up with the right amount of money. You either can make a large withdrawal from your personal bank account or you can contact a bail bond company to come up with the amount. Both options will help get your loved one out of jail, but which is the best option? Below, we share a few scenarios where working with a bail bond company is  the best option.

1. You Are Unable To Pay For The Entire Bail Amount

When it comes to the standard bail amounts in Virginia, you will find there is quite a difference. In most cases, bail for felonies begins around five grand and bail for a misdemeanor often is placed around one thousand dollars. The charge that led to the arrest, as well as previous criminal background and other factors play a role in determining the bail amount. The court often uses standard bail amounts to match the severity of the associated crime. The objective is to ensure that the bail amount imposes enough of a hardship that the person charged with the crime has a motivation to show up in court after being released. 

Keep in mind, using your own money to post the full bail amount creates the risk of not getting the entire amount back post-trial — the judge on the case reserves the right to use the fees to be put towards fees and restitution. If you don’t have sufficient funds to cover the bail, you should contact a bail bond company. As opposed to paying the whole bail upfront, you pay only a percentage of the bail as a fee. In return, the bail bond company posts the full bail and assumes the responsibility for ensuring that the charged person appears for their court date. In addition to taking cash, the best bail bond companies will accept credit cards or offer financing plans to make the payments more attainable. If you choose to work with a bail bond company, You set up a payment schedule for the bail company’s fee, and they post the full bail amount right away so your friend or family member gets released from jail.

2. You Have Other Upcoming Expenses Or Purchases

Saving money takes a lot of effort and will power. Maybe you are saving for a new place or trip across Europe. Or maybe you are saving your cash to be put towards larger upcoming expenses. Whatever the reason, nothing can ruin your money-saving efforts quite like an unexpected bail bond payment. Additionally, you want to avoid the risk of permanently losing the savings you put towards their bail, if the charged person fails to appear in court. If you ask a bail bond company to post bail instead, you can hold on to the majority of your savings and pay only a one-time, reasonable fee.

3. You Don’t Want To Use Personal Property As Collateral

In most bail situations, the cash used to pay bail is considered collateral. Collateral can be any valuable item that is used to secure a transaction between two parties. In the case of bail, the bail bonds company uses the money put towards bail as collateral. In return, the charged person gets released from jail. The charged person can get the collateral back by appearing in court on the set date.You may be aware that you can use assets other than cash as collateral for bail. Bail bond companies in many states will accept items like vehicles, houses, and land. Keep in mind, using these items as collateral for bail gives the bail bondsman the right to take ownership of the property if the charged person fails to appear in court.

The three reasons above are enough to work with a bail bond company when you need to get someone out of jail fast. If you need bail bonds in Danville, contact Affordable Bail Bonding. Our experienced, non-judgemental bail bondsmen have helped many people quickly get the bail bonds they need. To learn more, contact us!