If you have been arrested for a crime, you will likely need to remain in jail until your trial. To be released prior to your trial, a judge will need to set bail and you will then need to have a friend or family member bail you out. If no one is able to post bail because the bail amount is too high, you might wonder how long you'll be forced to remain in jail.
Why You Might Be in Jail for A While
The reason why you are incarcerated before your trial is to make sure that you show up to court on the day of your trial and that you participate in all of your hearings. Even if the charges you are facing will not likely lead to jail time, you may still be in jail for a long time if you do not post bail.
You have the right to a speedy trial under the US Constitution. However, what is considered speedy can vary. US courts are often backlogged and it might take longer to go to trial than you might think. Unless the case is very simple and involves a minor infraction, it will likely take several months or even several years to reach a conclusion.
How to Get Yourself Released
Rather than spending so much time in jail, it's better if a friend or family member can turn to a bail bond service to bail you out of jail. After paying the fee, the bail bond service will post bail and you will then be able to walk free until the day of your trial.
A bail bond agent will fill out paperwork and will then send it to the courthouse. A family member can be present at the time that you're released so they can take you home. You will then need to attend all of your court dates.
What to Do Next
Failure to appear at a court date will lead to a bench warrant being issued for your arrest. You might also forfeit the bail amount. However, if you contact a bail bond agent as quickly as possible, you might be able to resolve the issue and may be able to have your court date rescheduled.
This is especially true if you have a valid excuse for not attending court, such as being in a hospital. However, as long as you meet these requirements, you'll be able to remain out of jail until your trial.
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