It’s no secret that even at 10 percent of a bail amount, bail bonds can become a financial investment for the families that use them. While a bail bond is an excellent and more affordable option for bailing a loved one out of jail, the truth is, it’s not the last financial hurdle a person will have to overcome after an arrest.
Whether you are innocent or not, getting arrested can cost a lot more than you think in the long run. Here’s a closer look at how much a night behind bars can really hit your budget.
Court Fees and Fines
Court fees and fines are major costs associated with an arrest. Court costs can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the charges. These fees cover administrative costs such as filing documents, processing paperwork, and other related expenses. While these fees may start out seeming minimal, they can quickly add up to hundreds of dollars a day. This can become especially expensive as an offender experiences multiple hearings.
Attorney’s Fees
Hiring a criminal defense attorney can be expensive, especially if you face serious charges. Depending on your case’s complexity and the attorney’s experience level, legal fees can easily reach thousands of dollars.
Attorney’s fees for misdemeanor charges can fall between $1,500 and $5,000. The costs increase significantly in felony charges, where representation can cost upwards of $20,000.
Remember that in Texas, you may be entitled to court-appointed representation if you cannot afford an attorney.
Special Experts
Sometimes, your attorney will feel the need to call in a special expert on your case’s behalf. While these experts can benefit your case, they still need to get paid for their work.
Based on their expertise, a testifying expert can cost you hundreds of dollars an hour.
Loss of Personal Income
We’ve previously discussed that some employers don’t want anyone with a criminal record on their roster. If this is the case in your arrest, you will likely lose your current income.
Even if you manage to keep your job, you could still lose income due to time incarcerated or Time Spent in Court.
Probation Costs
We all know the saying “freedom isn’t free,” and that is especially true when a person is out of jail on probation.
In Texas, your monthly fee for being on probation could be as low as $25 a month and higher than $60 a month based on your situation.
Transportation Costs
Getting to court and your meetings with attorneys and other professionals can quickly drain your gas tank. So, it’s always important to keep the costs of gas in mind and the excess trips you’ll need to make to fulfill your legal obligations.
Restitution Payments
If the courts see fit for you to pay restitution to your victims, this payment can easily become a significant financial burden.
These payments are paid directly to victims of a crime in order to cover any costs associated with that crime, such as medical bills or property damage. Depending on the severity of the crime, restitution can cost a person thousands of dollars.
Start Saving Money on Your Arrest with Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds
If you or a loved one have been arrested in Fort Worth, we hate to say it, but the legal ramifications are coming down the line.
Instead of trying to pay a full bail amount, apply for a bail bond with Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds. We only charge 10% of your bail and you’re home free until your first hearing.
We are open 24/7. Contact us today to start the bail bond process.
