Many of us think about a judge setting bail for a loved one who has been arrested and figure that, that’s that and as soon as you find the funds, you can get them out of jail and back home. However, it isn’t always so cut and dry. There are complications that can arise that leave a judge rethinking the bail amount that was set. It often comes with an increase in bail for one reason or another. Casey’s Bail Bonds is here to talk about why bail might change after it has been set and what a defendant can do about it.

Reasons a Judge May Increase Bail Amount

It can be disheartening when you find out that a judge has raised the bail amount on someone you love. It can also leave you with several questions as to why it is happening. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why a judge might end up raising bail:
– Additional Charges: It is important to realize that a criminal case is constantly evolving. As the investigation takes place, there may be additional charges that are added on as more information becomes available.
– Public Safety Concerns: The judge has to take into account the safety of the public. If there is more evidence that is uncovered to prove that the defendant is a danger to society, the judge will likely increase the bail amount.
– Victim’s Condition: If there is a victim involved in the case and their condition worsens for any reason, the judge will more than likely increase bail so that it matches the severity of the victim’s injuries.
– Property Damage: Much like the condition of a victim, there may have been property damage that was involved in a criminal case. If through the investigation, the property damage is more extensive than initially thought, the bail amount will be adjusted to match the severity of that damage.
– Criminal History: The judge may not realize that the defendant has a history of crime at first. If there are additional charges that are brought to light, it could change the bail amount as well.

Options for Defendants When Bail is Increased

If you are a defendant and bail has been raised on you for whatever reason, you have two options:
– Contest Bail Increase: You can contest the increase and plead your case in an effort to get bail lowered again.
– Pay the Increase: If you don’t have a leg to stand on, you will have no other option than to bail the increased bail amount.

Bail Bond Services in Shelton, Tacoma, Seattle, Bellevue, Port Townsend, Port Orchard & Bremerton, WA

If you have been arrested and need help coming up with the funds necessary to get out on bail, you can turn to Casey’s Bail Bonds to help you get out of jail and home to those you love. We will work with friends and family members to ensure you have what you need. Call us today!