Bail Bond Information - Utah Criminal Lawyer

Bail bond companies in Utah provide just one option for securing your release from jail while a criminal case against you is pending. Before posting bail through a Utah bond company, you should understand that fees paid to a bail bondsman are typically non-refundable. Speaking with an experienced Utah criminal attorney will help you determine if other less expensive options are available to you. Based in Salt Lake City, criminal defense attorney Stephen Howard provides legal services to clients throughout Utah. Contact us today for an initial consultation.

How much does it cost to use a bail bond company in Utah?

Under Utah law, a bail bond company is required to charge a minimum fee of 10% of the full cash bail amount of an arrest warrant issued by a Utah court. For example, if a $50,000 arrest warrant has been issued, a Utah bail bonds company must charge a minimum fee of $5,000 to post a bond on behalf of the defendant. The fee cannot exceed 20% of the full cash bail amount, but the bail bond company is allowed to charge additional fees for document preparation, credit card processing, and other processing fees or costs imposed the jail or court.

Depending on the nature of the case and the amount of the cash bail, Utah bail bond companies may also require a co-signer on the bond. The co-signer may be required to repay the full value of the bond if the court orders that the bond be forfeited. Forfeiture of the bail bond typically occurs in a Utah criminal case if the defendant fails to appear at all required court hearings. In some cases, a Utah bondsman may also require collateral before issuing the bond.

Other Options for Release in a Utah Criminal Case

Depending on the nature of the charge, your prior criminal record (or lack thereof), which court your case is filed in, and other factors, there may be other less expensive options available to you for obtaining a release from jail. In some cases, a bail reduction may allow you to post a refundable cash bail. In other cases, you may be found eligible for an OR (own recognizance) release. If your case is filed in Salt Lake County, you may be eligible for supervised release through Salt Lake County Pre-Trial Services.

Before speaking with a Utah bail bond company, you should discuss your options with an experienced Utah criminal defense attorney. Doing so could save you thousands of dollars.

Finding a Utah Criminal Attorney in Salt Lake City

Based in Salt Lake City, criminal defense attorney Stephen Howard provides services to clients throughout Utah. He has successfully protected clients' rights in thousands of serious felony and misdemeanor cases ranging from homicide and aggravated felonies to drug possession and retail theft.

Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.