Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

The cost to get out of jail depends on the bail amount set by the court and the method you choose to pay it. Bail is the financial guarantee that ensures a defendant will return for their court hearings. While the full amount varies by case, most people use a bail bondsman to pay a small percentage of the total bond instead of paying the entire amount upfront.

Understanding Bail Costs

Bail is designed to allow release from jail while waiting for trial. The total amount is determined by the severity of the offense, criminal history, and flight risk. The more serious the charge, the higher the bail.

• Misdemeanor charges – Bail may range from $500 to $5,000
• Felony charges – Bail can range from $10,000 to over $100,000
• Violent or repeat offenses – May lead to even higher or no bail

Common Payment Options

• Cash bail – Paying the full amount directly to the court. The full sum is refunded after court appearances, minus any fees.
• Bail bond – Using a bail bondsman who charges a non-refundable fee, usually 10 percent of the total bail.
• Property bond – Offering real estate or assets as collateral to cover the full bail value.

Example Of Bail Costs

Here’s what bail amounts might cost, depending on how you pay:

• Bail set at $5,000 – Pay $5,000 cash or about $500 with a bondsman
• Bail set at $10,000 – Pay $10,000 cash or about $1,000 with a bondsman
• Bail set at $50,000 – Pay $50,000 cash or about $5,000 with a bondsman

The bail bond fee is non-refundable. This payment goes to the bail agent for posting the full amount to the court on your behalf. In some cases, collateral such as property, jewelry, or a vehicle may be required as security.

Additional Costs To Consider

In addition to bail or bond fees, there may be other expenses related to release and court requirements. These depend on the jurisdiction and the type of case.

• Court administrative fees or service charges
• Monitoring or GPS device fees, if ordered by the court
• Attorney fees for representation or bond hearings

How Bail Amounts Are Decided

The judge or court follows a bail schedule to determine how much the defendant must pay. Factors like prior convictions, the nature of the offense, and risk of flight influence the decision. In Kansas and other states, judges can adjust the amount at the first court hearing.

• Serious or violent crimes usually mean higher bail
• Repeat offenders may face higher bail or be denied bail
• Those with steady jobs and family ties may get lower bail

When Bail May Be Denied

Not all defendants qualify for bail. If the court believes the person poses a risk to public safety or is unlikely to return for hearings, the judge can deny bail completely.

• Capital offenses or life-sentence crimes
• Repeat offenders with poor court history
• Defendants deemed flight risks