Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

A 20,000 dollar bond is considered moderate rather than extremely high. It is a serious amount that usually applies to mid-level criminal charges such as felony theft, assault, or repeat DUI offenses. While it is not as large as bonds set for violent crimes or major felonies, it is still significant enough to show the court views the defendant as a potential risk. The purpose of a 20,000 dollar bond is to make sure the defendant appears for court hearings while allowing release before trial if they can afford bail or qualify for a bondsman.

What A 20 000 Bond Means

When the court sets a bond at 20,000 dollars, it means that amount must be guaranteed before the defendant can be released from jail. This does not always mean paying the full 20,000 dollars in cash. In most cases, the defendant can hire a bail bondsman to post the bond in exchange for a non-refundable fee, usually around 10 percent, or 2,000 dollars. The bondsman then becomes responsible for ensuring that the defendant attends court as required.

• Cash bond – Pay the full 20,000 dollars to the court and get it refunded after the case if all court dates are met.
• Surety bond – Pay a bail bondsman about 10 percent (2,000 dollars) as a non-refundable fee, and the bondsman guarantees the full bond amount.
• Property bond – Use property such as a house or land, as collateral instead of cash.

When Courts Set A 20 000 Bond

A 20,000 dollar bond is often assigned for offenses that are serious but not considered violent or life-threatening. Judges determine bond amounts based on several factors, such as the nature of the charge, the defendant’s record, and flight risk. Common examples of cases where a 20,000 dollar bond might be used include:

• Felony drug possession or distribution.
• Repeat DUI or DWI offenses.
• Aggravated assault or battery.
• Felony theft or burglary.
• Probation or parole violations involving new charges.

Factors That Affect Bond Amounts

Each case is different, and judges use specific factors to decide how high to set bail. Important considerations include:

• The seriousness of the alleged crime.
• Past criminal history or prior failures to appear in court.
• Employment, family, and community ties.
• Flight risk and likelihood of reoffending.
• Potential threat to victims or the public.

Judges in Kansas and other states often follow local bail guidelines but still have discretion to adjust amounts based on circumstances.

How Expensive A 20 000 Bond Feels In Practice

For many families, a 20,000 dollar bond is still difficult to afford. Paying the full amount requires significant cash or collateral. Even hiring a bail bondsman can be costly because the 2,000 dollar fee must be paid upfront and is non-refundable. Some bondsmen may offer payment plans or accept property as collateral, but this depends on credit history and risk level.

Is It Considered High?

A 20,000 dollar bond is not among the highest bail amounts, which can reach hundreds of thousands or even millions for serious felonies. It falls in the mid-range of typical bond amounts. For minor misdemeanors, bail is usually between 500 and 5,000 dollars. For violent or high-level felonies, bail can range from 50,000 to 500,000 dollars or more. This makes 20,000 a serious but manageable amount in comparison.

A 20,000 dollar bond is not considered extremely high, but it reflects a case that the court views as serious. It balances public safety with the opportunity for release, ensuring the defendant remains accountable while awaiting trial.