Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

A $20,000 secured bond means that the defendant must pay or pledge property worth $20,000 to be released from jail while awaiting trial. The bond is called “secured” because it requires money, property, or collateral to guarantee that the defendant will appear in court. If the defendant does not attend their hearings, the court keeps the money or claims the property used to secure the bond.

How a $20,000 Secured Bond Works

When a judge sets bail at $20,000 secured, the defendant or their representative must post the full amount or use assets equal in value to guarantee release. This assures the court that the defendant will comply with all conditions of release and return for all scheduled court dates.

• Cash payment – The defendant pays $20,000 directly to the court, which is refunded after the case if they meet all requirements.
• Property bond – The defendant uses real estate or other valuable property as collateral for the full bail amount.
• Bail bondsman – If the defendant cannot afford the full amount, they may hire a bondsman, typically paying a nonrefundable fee of around 10% ($2,000 in this case).

What Happens After Posting the Bond

After posting the $20,000 secured bond, the defendant is released from custody with the agreement that they will appear for all future court dates. If the defendant appears as required, the bond money or property is returned at the end of the case, minus any applicable court fees.

• If the defendant fails to appear, the court keeps the money or seizes the property.
• If they follow all conditions, the bond is refunded or the property is released.
• Violating release terms can lead to rearrest or stricter conditions.

A $20,000 secured bond requires the defendant to pay or pledge the full amount in cash or property to secure release from jail. The bond ensures the defendant’s return to court, and the money or collateral is returned if all court obligations are met.