What To Know About Appeal Bonds

When a court case results in an unsatisfactory verdict, you may be jailed immediately. Unfortunately, innocent people are convicted of crimes every day. Fortunately, you may not have to wait in jail for long. Read on to find out more about appeal bonds.

What to Know About Appeals

The appeals process allows a court case to be reviewed for errors and omissions. An appeal is not an opportunity to retry a case, though, since no new evidence is considered. During a trial, your criminal defense attorney is not just trying your case but they are also constantly on the lookout for issues that would call for an appeal if the verdict is "guilty". Only cases that contain mistakes on the part of the judge or jury are eligible for appeal. For example, the judge may have erred when giving the jury instructions. This is a common issue that might prompt the granting of an appeal.

Waiting for an Appeal

From the time of the verdict till your case is heard on appeal can be months. Ordinarily, those convicted must be incarcerated while awaiting an appeal. To help lessen the disruption to the life of a defendant, an appeal bail bond may be granted. This allows the defendant freedom to spend time with their family and work at their job instead of being behind bars while awaiting the outcome. Not all cases can be appealed and not all appeals will qualify for a bond.

Appeal Bonds are Different

Most people know about regular bail bonds but appeal bonds have more stringent conditions attached to them. Some out on an appeal bond have to wear ankle monitors or make daily contact with a justice official. In some cases, they might be ordered to house arrest or have other restrictions on their movements. Random drug and alcohol testing are common during this period. You should also know that appeal bonds are seldom granted for capital offenses like murder or kidnapping and may be more difficult to arrange if you have previous felony convictions.

Contact a Bail Bonding Agency

If you are granted an appeal bond, you may not be able to afford the full amount. Just as with a regular bail bond, bail bonding agencies offer you the opportunity to pay a portion (a percentage) of the full bail to gain release. The amount you owe is based on the full bail and the exact circumstances of your case. Speak to a friendly bail bonding agent to find out more about appeal bonds.


Share