Bail Bonds for Misdemeanor Offenses: Should You Even Consider It?
When you or a loved one is arrested, the first feeling is often a mix of panic and confusion. Questions can race through your mind, especially depending on whether the charge is a felony or a misdemeanor. If you've been arrested, even for a minor offense, you need a trusted partner who can offer guidance and support throughout the entire process, from the moment of arrest until the case is resolved.
At Smiley Bail Bonds, we understand what you're going through. For over two decades, our family-owned company has provided fast, reliable, and compassionate service to individuals in similar situations. With offices in Nashville, Lebanon, Gallatin, and Murfreesboro, Tennessee, we serve clients throughout the state, including Manchester, Brentwood, Franklin, Dickson, Lewisburg, Lynchburg, Jackson, Memphis, Chattanooga, and Knoxville.
What Constitutes a Misdemeanor?
In the legal system, crimes are generally categorized by their seriousness. Felonies are the most severe offenses, while misdemeanors are less serious but still carry significant penalties. Infractions, such as minor traffic tickets, are often the least severe. In Tennessee, misdemeanors can include offenses such as:
Simple possession of certain drugs
Theft of property valued under $1,000
Vandalism with damages under $1,000
Driving under the influence (DUI), first offense
Public intoxication
Disorderly conduct
Although these are considered "lesser" crimes compared to felonies, a misdemeanor conviction can still result in jail time, hefty fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. This record can affect future job opportunities, housing applications, and even your professional licenses. Therefore, you should always take a misdemeanor charge seriously.
Tennessee's Misdemeanor Bail Laws
In Tennessee, the law classifies misdemeanors into three categories: Class A, B, and C. The potential penalties for a misdemeanor vary by class and typically include the following.
Class A misdemeanors: These are the most serious offenses, carrying penalties of up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and fines of up to $2,500. Some common examples include first-offense DUI and simple assault.
Class B misdemeanors: These can result in up to six months in jail and fines up to $500. Common examples include reckless driving and some forms of harassment.
Class C misdemeanors: These are the least severe, with penalties of up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $50. Public intoxication is a typical example.
Tennessee law requires that bail be set at an amount that reasonably secures the defendant's appearance in court. A judge cannot set an excessively high bail amount as a form of punishment. An experienced bail bondsman can help handle your financial guarantee to the court, so you don't have to bear the full weight of the bail amount yourself.
The Bail Process for Misdemeanors
After an arrest, the individual is taken to a local jail for booking. This process involves taking fingerprints, a mugshot, and recording personal information, as well as the details of the alleged crime. Following the booking, the topic of bail will typically come up. Bail is a financial arrangement that allows a defendant to be released from custody while they await their court dates. It serves as a promise to the court that the person will appear for all required hearings.
For many misdemeanor offenses, the bail amount is often set according to a standard "bail schedule." This is a list of predetermined bail amounts for common crimes. In some cases, a judge may set the bail amount during a bail hearing, considering factors such as the defendant's criminal history, community ties, and the nature of the alleged offense.
The amount can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. While this may seem manageable compared to the high bail amounts for felonies, it can still be a financial burden for many families. This is where the question of using a bail bondsman arises.
Should You Post a Bail Bond for a Misdemeanor?
If you've been charged with a misdemeanor, you have a few options for posting bail. You can pay the full amount in cash directly to the court, use property as collateral, or work with a bail bonds company. In some cases, a bail bond might be the right choice, even for a misdemeanor.
The Financial Advantage
The most apparent benefit of using a bail bond is the financial relief it provides. Instead of paying the full bail amount, you pay a non-refundable fee to a bail bondsman, which is typically 10% of the total bail. For example, if bail is set at $3,000, you would pay a fee of $300. The bail bondsman would then post the full $3,000 on your behalf, securing your release.
This allows you to keep your savings for other important expenses, such as hiring an attorney, paying household bills, and supporting your family. A sudden, large cash payment can disrupt your financial stability, and a bail bond helps avoid that.
Speed and Convenience
Bail bondsmen often have extensive knowledge of the jail system and the individuals who work within it. Therefore, their experience allows them to complete the necessary paperwork and procedures quickly and correctly. Trying to post bail on your own can be a slow and frustrating process, especially if you're unfamiliar with the steps.
At Smiley Bail Bonds, we are available 24/7 to start the process as soon as possible, which means you or your loved one could spend less time in jail. The goal is to get them home as fast as possible, and an experienced bail bondsman is trained to do just that.
Maintaining Normalcy
Being released from jail quickly allows you to return to your life with minimal disruption. You can go back to work, care for your family, and meet with your attorney to prepare a defense. Remaining in jail, even for a few days, can lead to job loss and other personal hardships. A swift release helps maintain stability during a difficult period.
What Happens After Bail Is Posted?
Once the bond is posted and you are released, your primary responsibility is to make sure you attend all scheduled court dates. Missing a court date has serious consequences. The judge will issue a warrant for your arrest, and the bail bond will be forfeited. This means the bail bondsman would be responsible for paying the full bail amount to the court, and they would then need to seek reimbursement from the individual who co-signed the bond.
At Smiley Bail Bonds, our role doesn't end when the jail doors open. We stay involved by sending court date reminders and offering support throughout the legal process. We are your partners from start to finish, helping you stay on track and fulfill your court obligations.
Bail Bondsman in Nashville, Tennessee
For over 20 years, Smiley Bail Bonds has been a trusted supporter for clients across Tennessee. As a family-owned business, we are known for providing prompt, dependable, and trustworthy support. We support our clients from the initial arrest to the final court appearance.
Our commitment to delivering outstanding service in trying times sets us apart. With a solid grasp of the court system and bail bond process, we are here to help you when you need us the most. With Smiley Bail Bonds, you'll be treated with absolute professionalism and care. Call today to secure the path to freedom.
With offices in Nashville, Lebanon, Gallatin, and Murfreesboro, Tennessee, we serve clients throughout the state, including Manchester, Brentwood, Franklin, Dickson, Lewisburg, Lynchburg, Jackson, Memphis, Chattanooga, and Knoxville.