Bail and Bond Proceedings

While getting in touch with a local bondsman after you have been charged with a crime is sometimes referred to as a “get out of jail free” card, this statement could not be further from the truth. The bail bond process in Texas is a serious one and any missteps on your part could result in a greater punishment than you would have received for the criminal activity of which you were first accused. You must be educated on the procedure you can expect during that initial arraignment and work with your attorney to make sure you are taking the appropriate steps. That is why you need an experienced criminal defense attorney.

The primary purposes of your first appearance in a courtroom are for the judge to determine whether or not bail or bond will be set and, if so, for how much. Texas grants a lot of leeway to its judges in determining the appropriate amount for bail. The most important factors for consideration are the seriousness of your crimes, the amount a judge determines is necessary to ensure your appearance at the next court date, ties to the community, and any previous criminal history. You should know that in cases of capital offenses, or when the accused can be shown to pose serious harm to himself or others, bail can be denied altogether. It is important to have an knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer by your side starting during this quick proceeding, as he or she can make sure that the bail is set at a fair amount and that all other legal details are handled appropriately.

Once you are made aware of the bail you must pay, you will be remanded to a holding cell or prison while you wait for a family member or friend to make arrangements a bondsman. This person should be prepared to pay ten percent of the total bail, as well as have collateral of value to offer if the bail amount is particularly high. Once a contract with a bondsman has been completed, you now have another party with a vested interest in making sure you return to the courtroom at your next appointed date.

You are entitled to have a criminal defense attorney by your side through every step of the legal process, and setting your bail is one of those first key moments during which legal representation is crucial. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will argue the merits of a low bail amount as well as protect you from an unreasonable high bail amount.

Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney at Palacios, Garza & Thompson

The criminal defense attorneys at Palacios, Garza & Thompson have the experience you need. If you are facing a criminal charge or need bail bond assistance, please contact our office today.

For more information or to talk to an experienced criminal defense attorney about your legal concerns contact Palacios, Garza & Thompson, P.C. today for a consultation (956) 318-0507.