All over the country, legislators have been looking at and implementing bail reform aimed at keeping non-violent criminals out of jail if they cannot afford bail. In NH, new bail guidelines that lower bail amounts to make them more affordable have resulted in a rash of criminals being released on their own recognizance only to commit more crimes once they’re back on the street. Under the new rules, bail commissioners, or, as in other states, risk assessment tools, set bail and the criminals are arraigned at a later date. The goal is to not jail people simply because they can’t afford cash bail.
Spotlight on: Property Crime
One of the most common crimes that a person may be arrested for is a property crime. A property crime can be as big as embezzling millions of dollars from a company to as small as stealing a pack of gum from a convenience store. The property doesn’t need to be stolen for it to be considered a crime, it could be damaged, concealed, or destroyed as well. Let’s break down this category of crimes and look at the varying forms of property crime.
Test Your Bail Bonds Knowledge: Fact or Fiction?
You may think you know everything you need to know about bail bonds but do you really? Take our quiz and find out!
Bail Bonds are allowed in every state.
Infractions, Misdemeanors, and Felonies: Know the Difference
Everyone knows that misdemeanors are not as serious an offense as a felony. While felonies do generally mean more jail time, a misdemeanor may not just be the slap on the wrist that we may expect.
What Does a Bail Bond Agent Do?
If asked what a bail bond agent does, most people will say, “They get you out of jail” but few have more than a vague answer at best. The truth is, that while they do get you out of jail, they also have other duties.
Surprising Facts about Bail Bonds
Everyone knows about bail bonds. They know that if they ever get arrested, a bail bond agent is who to call to get out of jail quickly and back home where they belong. For most of us, the bail bond system is unfamiliar and something we hope we never need.
Why We Have a Bail System
When a person is arrested and charged with a crime, they are brought to a hearing where a judge looks at the details of the case such as the manner and seriousness of the crime, and considers details about the accused like criminal history and the likelihood that they would flee. They consult with a bail schedule (bail guidelines) and set bail.
What Not To Do In Court
If you’re appearing in court, you want things to go your way. The judge and jury (if it’s a jury trial) will scrutinize everything you do and everything you say so it’s important to be alert, respectful, and mindful of your words and actions. Once you know what NOT to do, you’ll be closer to a positive outcome of your trial.
What To Do During a Traffic Stop
Everyone who has a driver’s license will get stopped by a police officer for a traffic violation at some point. Even the most careful driver will go a little over the speed limit or fail to come to a complete stop now and then. For police officers, traffic stops can be dangerous and the people they stop can be unpredictable so they follow specific procedures with every stop to ensure the safety of everyone involved. By following some simple recommendations, you can get through the traffic stop quickly and smoothly.
Bail Bonds: The Basics
If you or a loved one has never been arrested, when it happens, it can be scary and confusing, whether you’ve been arrested for a serious crime or a minor infraction. Here are some basics on what happens when you’ve been arrested and how to get out of jail.