If someone you know gets arrested and bail is set, a common question is: What happens to the bail money? Whether you’re posting bail for yourself or someone else, it’s important to know how the bail system works and what can happen to that money.
What Is Bail?
Bail is money or property given to the court to ensure that a person will return for their court dates. It’s essentially a promise: Show up to court, and you’ll get the money back.
Types of Bail
There are a few ways bail can be paid:
- Cash Bail: You pay the full amount directly to the court.
- Bail Bond: A bail bondsman pays the court on your behalf for a non-refundable fee (12% in Louisiana).
- Property Bond: You offer real estate or property as collateral.
What Happens to Bail Money?
Here’s what can happen in different situations:
Defendant Attends All Court Dates
- Cash Bail: You’ll get most or all of the money back, minus any court fees.
- Bail Bond: The fee is non-refundable. It’s the cost of the service.
- Property Bond: The court lifts any claim on the property.
Defendant Misses a Court Date (Bail Forfeited)
- Cash Bail: The court keeps the full amount. If the defendant returns with a valid reason (like a medical emergency), the judge might return it.
- Bail Bond: The bondsman is on the hook for the full amount and may hire a bounty hunter. The person who signed the bond may be financially responsible.
- Property Bond: The court may take possession of the property used for bail.
Charges Are Dropped Before Court
- Cash Bail: The full amount is usually returned.
- Bail Bond: Still non-refundable.
- Property Bond: The court releases the claim on the property.
Defendant Is Found Guilty
- Cash Bail: Refunded after deducting court costs or fines.
- Bail Bond: Not refunded.
- Property Bond: Released if all court rules were followed.
Defendant Is Found Not Guilty or Case Is Dismissed
- Cash Bail: Returned, minus admin fees.
- Bail Bond: Still non-refundable.
- Property Bond: Released from the court.
FAQ: Common Questions About Bail Money
How long does it take to get bail money back?
Usually a few weeks to a few months, depending on the court. Refunds often come by mail.
Do you always get bail money back?
Only if the defendant goes to all required court dates. If not, the money is usually forfeited.
What if I used a bail bondsman?
You won’t get the money back. The fee you paid is non-refundable.
Can someone else pay bail for me?
Yes. A friend or family member can pay. If you attend court as required, they’ll get their money or property back.
Can the court use my bail money to pay fines or fees?
Yes. Some courts deduct any fines or restitution from the bail before giving back what’s left.
Bottom Line
Understanding bail is key — especially if you’re paying a large sum or putting up property. If the defendant follows all court requirements, bail money or property is typically returned. But if a bondsman is used, the fee is a cost of service and won’t be refunded, no matter the outcome.
About Bail Bonds St. Tammany
Bail Bonds St. Tammany is a local bonding company. With several locations throughout the state of Louisiana, we service St. Tammany Parish Jail in Covington, Livingston Parish Jail in Livingston, Jefferson Parish Jail in Gretna, Tangipahoa Parish Jail in Amite, St. John Parish Jail in Laplace, and many more.
For more than 20 years in the industry, Bail Bonds St. Tammany has been providing both families and individuals with expedient and efficient bail service. We are reliable at any time, day or night. We are always here for our clients and we treat people who require bail as people, not criminals. There is no way of knowing the circumstances behind what has happened to an accused, and we firmly believe in “innocent until proven guilty.” This respectful approach to our clients is part of what makes Bail Bonds St. Tammany better than the competition.
We process all bond payments securely, and our friendly staff is efficient and hardworking, getting all the required paperwork done as quickly as possible. We do not want loved ones to stay in custody longer than necessary. Our bail bondsman will make the entire process of obtaining bail simple and painless. Let industry knowledge work for you.
We offer payment plans, too. For more details on the types of bail bonds we offer, and to get started, call any of our locations, or fill out an online form.
