We’ve heard it a hundred different ways:
“Can you bond out on murder?” “Is $500,000 bail even real?” “What charge is too bad for bail?”
Here’s the real answer: it depends. Bail isn’t just about what you did; it’s about what the court thinks you might do next. That includes how serious the crime is, whether anyone got hurt, and if you’re at risk of running or reoffending.
At Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds in Denton, we deal with everything from missed court on a traffic ticket to seven-figure bonds for violent felonies. So let’s walk through the kinds of charges that come with the biggest bail amounts—and when the judge might slam the door shut entirely.
Murder and Capital Crimes
No surprise here—murder charges carry the highest bail amounts, if bail is offered at all.
- Capital murder (like killing a child, multiple victims, or during another felony): Often no bail. The court can legally deny it.
- First-degree murder: Bail can hit $500,000 to $1 million easily.
- Manslaughter or negligent homicide: Lower, but still in the $50,000–$100,000 range.
If the DA thinks someone is a danger to the public or a flight risk, they can request no bond, and the judge can agree.
If there’s strong evidence, a past violent record, or the charge qualifies as capital, the judge can deny bail altogether. This is rare, but it happens—especially in Denton County when the crime is extreme.
Aggravated Sexual Assault and Child Sex Offenses
These are among the most sensitive and serious cases we see, and the bond amounts reflect that.
- Sexual assault of a child, aggravated rape, or human trafficking can lead to bail of $50,000 and higher.
- Even indecent contact or possession of child pornography can lead to bail north of $10,000.
These are charges that judges and the community take seriously. They usually come with strict pretrial conditions, such as wearing an ankle monitor and adhering to a no-contact order.
If there are multiple victims, prior convictions, or signs of grooming or coercion, a judge might deny bail altogether under Texas law.
Aggravated Robbery and Armed Burglary
Robbery with a weapon? That’s no small deal in Texas.
- Aggravated robbery can bring $10,000 in bail or more.
- Breaking and entering with a weapon or injury involved can also reach the six-figure mark, depending on the severity of the crime and damage caused during the act.
We’ve seen judges double bail on the spot if they think the accused could harm someone again.
Major Drug Charges
Drug offenses get pricey fast—but not all drug charges are created equal.
- Simple possession: Usually under $10,000.
- Distribution, trafficking, or manufacturing large quantities: Now you’re looking at bail within the six-figure club, especially if guns or gang involvement are in the picture.
Bail jumps depending on the type of drug, the amount, and whether it crossed county or state lines.
So, Is Any Crime “Too Bad” for Bail?
Yes. In Texas, a judge can deny bail in cases where:
- The charge is capital murder
- The defendant has violated bond or parole in a violent case
- The person is considered an “imminent threat” to public safety
- They’re likely to run and not return
In these cases, it’s called “no bond,” and that means even Big Bubba can’t get you out—until a judge changes their mind (which is rare).
How Bail Bond Companies Like Us Can Still Help
Even if the bail is high, that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. If the court sets a bond, we can usually work with you—even on:
- $100K+ bonds
- Payment plans
- Collateral options (property, vehicles, etc.)
- Warrant walks or self-surrenders to prevent surprise arrests
We’ll also be honest with you. If bail isn’t possible, we’ll tell you straight—no runaround, no false promises.
Don’t Wait to Get the Facts—Come to Big Bubba for Help!
If someone you care about is facing a serious charge, call Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds before you make assumptions. We’ve helped people with bonds ranging from $500 to $1 million. What matters most is knowing where you stand and what’s possible.
Contact us today to get your bail bond application started. We’ll answer your questions, explain what the court’s likely to do, and tell you what your options are—even if the charge is serious.
