When you or a loved one is sitting in jail trying to figure out what is going to happen next, a judge is reviewing your case and deciding on whether or not bail should be allowed. There are five reasons that a judge could possibly deny you or your loved one bail.
Severity of the Crime
The severity of the crime is one of the main reasons a judge would deny bail. If an individual is charged with a particularly violent crime, such as murder, rape, or armed robbery, then it may be hard for them to get bail. The judge might rule that the crime is too severe for the individual to be returned safely to the general population prior to their trial.
Missing Court Dates
It is important for those waiting for their trial to be responsible enough to attend the pre-trial court dates. If an individual does not make it to court when they are supposed to, then their bail may be denied. This tells the judge that the individual is not taking things seriously and may not be counted on to show up to their own trial. Now showing up to court dates makes the individual seem like they can’t exercise basic levels of responsibility. Since bail is a privilege and not a right, a judge might look disapprovingly upon the individual when he or she does not show up to court when expected.
Flight Risk
Being granted bail is like being granted trust. It says that the individual will stay in the area and show up to their trial. However, if a judge thinks the individual will use bail as an opportunity to flee the country, then they have the right to not grant it. Proving this can be difficult; therefore, a judge will have to use their discretion appropriately. An individual with a criminal record history and who has been known to try and flee is someone who would be considered a flight risk.
Threat to the Public
An individual who has been charged with a crime that is considered particularly violent and/or antisocial could be considered a threat to the public. When deciding on bail, a judge has to keep in mind the safety of the general population. If the judge truly believes the individual would be a threat to the public, then they have the right to deny bail. If bail is granted to an individual who poses as a threat, then there could be major repercussions.
Repeat Offense
An individual who has been convicted of crimes multiple times will have a much harder time getting bail. Their habit of repeatedly committing crimes suggests that they have not learned their lesson. Most judges will look at their request for bail with skepticism since they have proven that they cannot be trusted. Continuously getting into trouble lets the judge know that the individual does not know what it means to be accountable for their actions.
Here at Mercy Bail Bonds it’s important for our clients to understand the possible reasons that you or a loved one may be denied bail. Our team of experts will do everything they can to help you get bailed out of jail so you can be home with your loved ones as soon as possible. Contact us today at (727) 856-7775 to get started with the bail bond process.