Illinois Bail Bond Rules

After an arrest, you may not be stuck in jail until your criminal trial. You may instead have a chance to pay some money to get out of jail until your court date arrives. The money is essentially a promise to return on that date, at which time you’ll also get your money back. This is called a bail bond, but the Illinois bail bond rules are a little more complicated than that. 

If you’ve been arrested in Illinois, you may need a lawyer, like those at Chicago Trusted Attorneys™, to help you. You need to understand the rules before you head to court, so you can protect your funds and secure time out of jail. 

Not Everyone Can Leave on Bail

In most cases, you should be able to leave on bail, so you can focus on preparing for your criminal trial in the comfort of your home, not from a jail cell. However, some criminal offenses could mean that you’re stuck in jail until it’s time for your trial. 

Typically, those who are held without bail are either considered a danger to others, such as those facing murder charges, or they’re a flight risk. If you’re not suspected to be either of these things, you may have an opportunity to post your bail and leave. 

Posting Your Bail

The bail bond system in Illinois is a little different from many states in that professional bail bondsman aren’t allowed to practice in the state. Even your attorney can’t post your bail for you. What we can do, though, is to help you and your family prepare the funds and post the bail bond correctly. 

Your lawyer can also help with the steps you need to take after your bail is posted. You’ll need to seek the right defense and prepare for your day in court, making the most of your release from jail. 

Bail Jumping Has Major Consequences

Unfortunately, some people take their bail bond as an opportunity to flee. If you fail to appear in court, or bail jump, you could face harsh financial consequences and even more charges. If you’re found guilty of bail jumping, you’ll pay the full bail bond and give up the money you’ve already posted. That can add up to thousands of dollars or more.

You’ll also need to head to court, not just for your current criminal charges, but also for the bail jumping charges. If you don’t fight back, you could be left with two separate convictions, which could mean a lot of jail or prison time. 

Contact an Illinois Bail Lawyer

If you’ve been arrested, it can be tough to understand the rules behind your bail bond. You may know you’ll need money to post, but understanding the finer details can help you get out of jail and back home faster. 

If you’re having some trouble understanding Illinois bail bond rules, you may need a lawyer from Chicago Trusted Attorneys™ on your side. Your Illinois defense attorney can help you find who can pay your bail, what you’ll need to know about your bail, and how to get ready for your trial. 

Get started with a consultation about your case with an Illinois bail bond lawyer by calling 312-519-3171 or by reaching us through the online contact form below.