Rapid Intake: Should You Turn Yourself In Before You're Arrested?
If you have an active warrant out for your arrest, you may wonder if you should turn yourself in before law enforcement finds or contacts you. Although it may seem scary, a court judge may be lenient on you because you turned yourself in, depending on the extent of your crime. One of the first things you want to do before you turn yourself in is visit a bail bonds company and request rapid intake and appearance bond services. Here's what you need to know about rapid intake and appearance bonds.
What's Rapid Intake and How Does an Appearance Bond Work?
When law enforcement arrests you, or you turn yourself in, you may spend time in jail until you see a judge. A judge allows you to post bail after your arraignment. However, with rapid intake, a bail bonds person arrives to the police station with you. The bail bonds person presents an appearance bond to law enforcement when you arrive.
Although law enforcement will book and process you (e.g. take fingerprints, fill out paperwork, take your picture, etc.) when you turn yourself in, an appearance bond gives you chance to leave the police station afterward, without spending any time in jail. As with a regular bail bond, you must show up for your court date, or you become responsible for the entire bail amount and additional legal charges.
You should keep in mind that if you're accused of a violent crime, such as assault and battery or robbery, you may not qualify for an appearance bond or rapid intake. In this case, you'll most likely need to see a judge before you can post bail. If you do qualify for an appearance bond and rapid intake, there are some things you may want to think about before you use them to stay out of jail.
What Important Things Should You Consider Before You Post Bail?
A bail bonds company will expect you to repay the entire bail amount if you miss your court date. In most cases, a bail bonds person won't know the cost of your bail until they escort you to the jailhouse. You bail is usually calculated by the extent of your crimes. If you committed a misdemeanor or minor crime, your bail amount may be lower than it would be if you committed a felony.
It's also important to understand that your original bail amount can increase once you see a judge. It's a good idea that you set aside extra funding and collateral to cover any unexpected bail fees you might incur later. If necessary, ask friends and family members if they can help you with repaying your bail.
For more information about appearance bonds or rapid intake, contact a bail bonds company right away.