Facing criminal charges can be scary and stressful for you and your loved ones. Dealing with the legal process, like learning about bond options and defending your case, can be confusing and overwhelming.
At The Bishop Law Group, our Baltimore criminal defense lawyers understand how hard this can be, and we are here to help with care, knowledge, and experience.
Our team is focused on protecting your rights and helping you every step of the way. This includes guiding you through bond hearings, working to get the best bond terms, and building a strong defense for your case.
If you need a skilled and supportive criminal defense lawyer, reach out to The Bishop Law Group today to talk about your case. We are proud to serve people throughout Maryland, including Baltimore, Ocean City, and other areas nearby. Let us help you move forward and protect your future.
Understanding Bond in Maryland: A Detailed Guide
Individuals arrested and charged with a crime in Maryland may be eligible for bond. Bond is a financial payment made to the court that secures the defendant’s release from jail while they await trial.
Navigating the intricacies of bond status terms in Maryland is vital for defendants and their families.
For a free legal consultation, call (410) 390-3101
Types of Bonds in Maryland
Maryland offers several types of bonds, each with unique terms and conditions:
Release on Recognizance (ROR)
Release on recognizance allows defendants to be released without paying bond. Instead, they make a promise to appear in court for all required hearings. This type of bond is based on trust.
Hold Without Bond (HWOB)
Defendants held without bond must remain in jail until their court hearing. The court considers various factors before deciding on this bond status:
- Nature and seriousness of the offense: Crimes involving violence or harm are taken very seriously.
- Defendant‘s prior record: Past convictions, especially for violent or repeat offenses, influence bond decisions.
- Defendant‘s flight risk: Courts assess whether the defendant might fail to appear for trial or leave the jurisdiction.
- Defendant‘s ties to the community: Connections, such as family and employment, show the defendant’s stability.
- Defendant‘s financial resources: The defendant’s ability to pay bond is reviewed.
- Risk of harm to others: Courts evaluate the potential danger to victims, witnesses, or the public.
- Defendant‘s mental health and substance abuse history: Relevant issues affecting the defendant’s behavior are considered.
- Strength of the prosecution‘s case: Evidence and witnesses play a role in bond decisions.
Commitment Pending Hearing
If a commissioner decides to hold a defendant after their initial appearance, they remain in custody until a judge reviews their case during a bail review hearing.
Secured Bonds
A secured bond requires payment of a specific amount to the court to secure release. Upon resolution of the case, whether the defendant is found guilty or not, the full amount is refunded to the payer.
Percentage Bond
With a percentage bond, the defendant pays a portion of the total bond amount set by the court to secure release.
Corporate Authorized Bonds
In some cases, bail bondsmen post high secured bond amounts for defendants. The defendant or their family pays the bondsman a fee in exchange for this service. At the conclusion of the case, the bondsman receives the bond amount back.
Unsecured Bonds
Unsecured bonds do not require upfront payment. Defendants sign a promise to pay the bond amount if they fail to appear in court. Failure to comply may result in a court judgment requiring payment of the full bond.
The Bond Process in Maryland
The bond process generally follows these steps:
- Arrest and Booking: The defendant is taken into custody and formally booked.
- Initial Appearance: The defendant appears before a commissioner or judge.
- Bond Hearing: Bond type and amount are set based on the defendant’s circumstances.
- Bond Payment: If eligible for bond, the defendant or their representative pays the required amount.
- Release: The defendant is released pending trial after bond is secured.
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The Importance of Legal Representation in Bond Cases
Having an attorney during bond proceedings is essential for several reasons:
- Expert Guidance: Attorneys explain the bond process and recommend options tailored to the client’s situation.
- Negotiation: Skilled lawyers advocate for lower bond amounts or more favorable terms.
- Representation: In court, attorneys present arguments for bond adjustments, emphasizing factors that benefit the defendant.
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Contact a Baltimore Criminal Law Attorney Today
If you or someone you know has been arrested and may be eligible for bond, The Bishop Law Group is here to help. Call us to schedule a consultation.
Our experienced team is dedicated to providing the support and guidance you deserve during this challenging time.
Call or text (410) 390-3101 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
