Home / Family member arrested / Questions

What is the difference between cash bail and a bail bond?

Short answer

Cash bail is paid in full to the court and mostly returned if the person goes to every court date. A bail bond is a promise from a bail agent; you pay them a fee that isn’t returned.

Rules differ by state. This is general information, not legal or professional advice.

See every step in 1 minuteA family member was arrested: how to find them and how bail works
Watch nowRead the guide

People also ask

How long does it take to get released after bail is paid?›Can I visit someone in county jail?›How do I find out if someone is in jail?›Do I get my bail money back?›What happens if they miss a court date after I paid bail?›Can I put money on their jail account?›How do they get a public defender?›

See all questions (8) ›

Official sources