Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

A PS bond stands for a “Personal Surety” bond, which is a type of bail allowing a defendant to be released from jail without paying money upfront. Instead of posting cash or hiring a bondsman, the defendant promises to appear in court and comply with the conditions of release. The court releases the person based on their personal assurance or signature rather than requiring full financial security. This type of bond is often used for low-risk defendants or minor offenses where the court believes they will return on their own.

How A PS Bond Works

A PS bond is a written agreement between the defendant and the court. The defendant signs a promise stating they will appear at all court dates and follow any release terms. No money changes hands unless the defendant violates the agreement. If they fail to appear, the court can issue a warrant and impose the full bond amount as a financial penalty.

• Personal promise – The defendant gives their word to return to court and obey conditions.
• No cash required – Unlike a cash or surety bond, no upfront payment is needed for release.
• Court supervision – The court can attach specific conditions, such as regular check-ins or drug testing.

Who Qualifies For A PS Bond

Judges typically grant PS bonds to individuals who are not considered a flight risk or a danger to the community.

• First-time offenders or those charged with non-violent crimes.
• Defendants with steady employment or community ties.
• People who have strong family support and a permanent residence.
• Defendants with a record of appearing for previous court hearings.

In Kansas and many other states, PS bonds are common for misdemeanor offenses, low-level felonies, or cases involving minor violations where the defendant has no history of skipping court.

Conditions Of A PS Bond

Although no money is required, defendants released on a PS bond must follow court-ordered conditions.

• Attending every scheduled court appearance.
• Avoiding further criminal activity while on release.
• Maintaining contact with a pretrial services officer if assigned.
• Complying with any travel restrictions or curfews.
• Submit to drug or alcohol testing if ordered.

Failure to meet these conditions can lead to immediate arrest, bond revocation, and possible loss of the opportunity for release in the future.

Difference Between PS Bond & Cash Bond

The main difference between a PS bond and a cash bond is financial risk. With a cash bond, money must be paid before release. With a PS bond, no money is paid unless the defendant violates the terms. A PS bond is based on trust and accountability, while a cash bond relies on financial incentive to ensure court appearances.

• PS Bond – No payment upfront, based on personal promise and eligibility review.
• Cash Bond – Full payment required before release, refunded after case completion.
• Surety Bond – Posted by a bail bondsman for a non-refundable fee, usually 10 percent.

Advantages Of A PS Bond

PS bonds are beneficial for both the defendant and the court system. They reduce jail overcrowding, allow low-risk individuals to continue working, and save money for both the accused and taxpayers. They also encourage defendants to take responsibility for their own compliance rather than relying on a bail agent.

A PS bond is a form of release based on trust and accountability instead of cash. Courts use it for defendants who are likely to follow the rules and return for court, making it a fair and efficient alternative to traditional bail.