Should You Work to Be Released on Your Own Recognizance?

Sometimes, however, a judge will permit you to be released on your own recognizance. Keep reading to learn more about what released on your own recognizance means and when it might and won't be used. 

When a judge releases you on your own recognizance, you don't pay a cash bail to get out of jail. Instead, you sign a legal document that states you will appear in court. If a judge grants you release on your own recognizance, there are usually guidelines that you'll need to follow.

For example, you might have to agree to attend regular meetings with a probation officer. The judge may order you to stay away from certain people, or you might have to agree not to use drugs or alcohol. You may also have to agree to electronic monitoring via an ankle bracelet, and you might have to surrender your passport if you have one.

Judges grant this type of release on a very limited basis. One situation where it they may use it is if the individual is a low flight risk. To qualify as a low flight risk, you should have strong ties to the community, such as stable employment, family, and a permanent residence.

Another situation where you might be released on your own recognizance is if your charges are minor misdemeanors and non-violent in nature. However, if you've previously missed a court appearance, have warrants out for your arrest, or have a criminal record, you likely won't be released on your own recognizance.

If a judge doesn't release you on your own recognizance, you can still get out of jail until your trial, even if you can't afford your bail. A bail bond agent offers a helpful service to accused individuals. The agent requires you to pay 10 percent of your bail amount and they will cover the rest. So if your bail is $500, you will only pay $50. The 10 percent is non-refundable and acts as your fee for using the bail bond. 

Maybe you're facing a larger bail amount, and the 10 percent is still a stretch for your budget. Some bail bond companies accept payments towards this fee, especially if you have collateral that you can offer as assurance that you'll make your payments. 

One thing to note about being released on your own recognizance is that only a judge can grant this type of release. Depending on your offense and the bail process in your county, a jailer may be able to determine your bail and accept your bail payment. This can often be done on the same day of your arrest.

However, to see a judge, you'll need to wait at least a day for the next court session. If your arrest occurs on a Friday evening, this means that you'll be in jail for the whole weekend. Should you have work or familial responsibilities, you'll need to make other arrangements while you wait to see a judge.

It's also possible that the judge will deny your request for release on your own recognizance. In this situation, you'll still be in jail and owe bail. If your attorney doesn't think you qualify for release on your own recognizance, a bail bond agent will assist you with your bail so that you're out of jail as quickly as possible. 

Do you need a bail bond or do you have a friend or family member you need to bail out? Contact Matt McKeehan Bail Bonds to take out a bail bond.