Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

10% of a $100,000 bail is $10,000. This amount is what you would typically pay to a bail bondsman if you cannot afford to post the full bail amount in cash. The bondsman posts the full $100,000 with the court in exchange for your $10,000 non-refundable fee. This allows the defendant to be released from custody while awaiting trial.

Understanding the 10% Rule

Most bail bond companies charge a standard 10% premium on the total bail amount.

• Total bail set by the court – $100,000
• Fee to bail bondsman (10%) – $10,000
• This fee is non-refundable, even if the defendant appears at all hearings or the case is dismissed

This fee is the cost of the bondsman’s service and is not considered a deposit. You do not get it back.

Other Options Besides a Bondsman

• Pay the full $100,000 cash bail – The money is held by the court and refunded after the case ends if the defendant follows all conditions
• Use property as collateral – Some courts or bondsmen allow property (like real estate) to be pledged in place of cash
• Request a bail reduction – Your attorney can file a motion to ask the judge to lower the amount based on income or risk

What If the Defendant Misses Court?

If the defendant fails to appear…

• The full $100,000 is forfeited
• The bondsman can send a recovery agent to locate the defendant
• The co-signer or person who paid the $10,000 may be responsible for the full amount

Paying 10% of a $100,000 bail means providing $10,000 to a licensed bail bondsman in exchange for the defendant’s release. While more affordable than paying the full bail in cash, this amount is non-refundable and does not come back after the case ends. Always understand the legal and financial risks before signing a bond agreement.