Fairfax Bail Bonds FAQs

If your loved one has been arrested, this can be a stressful and overwhelming situation. Taking the right steps promptly can help ensure that their well-being and legal rights are protected. Contact us to get help securing an immediate release or determine whether further assistance will be needed to help your friend or family member get released from jail. If necessary, we can connect you with an attorney who can provide legal representation and advocate for favorable bail terms.

A warrant is a legal document issued by a court or an authorized judicial officer that allows law enforcement officials or other authorities to perform a specific action. Warrants are an essential part of the legal system, and they serve to protect people's rights while ensuring that law enforcement can carry out their duties.

There are two major types of warrants that may require bail bond services:

• Arrest Warrant: This is a written order issued by a judge or magistrate authorizing the police or law enforcement officials to arrest a specific person. This type of warrant will typically be issued when there is probable cause to believe that the person committed a crime. If an arrest warrant is issued against you, you should contact us and allow our professional staff to coordinate the turn-in process, which can help reduce the chance of you or your loved one being incarcerated for longer than necessary.
• Bench Warrant: This is an order issued by a judge for the arrest of a person who has failed to appear in court as required. Bench warrants are usually issued for reasons such as failure to appear for a scheduled court date, failure to comply with court orders, or failure to pay fines. If a bench warrant has been issued against you, you should contact us immediately to determine the best strategy to remove or deactivate the bench warrant as soon as possible.

No, the magistrate's office is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (including holidays). As such, our office is also open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week (including holidays). We are here to help guide you and assist you with all your bail bond needs.

Please feel free to contact us to discuss your circumstances so we can help resolve any questions or concerns that you may have. While most attorneys do not operate 24 hours a day, our offices are always open, our consultations are free, and we are happy to help you at any hour of the day or night!

Si, hablamos español. Por favor, contáctenos para discutir cómo podemos ayudarlo.

There are several types of bonds that can be posted to secure a person's release from jail while their criminal case is pending. The availability of these bail options may vary based on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the case. Here are the common types of bail that can be posted:

• Cash Bail: Cash bail involves paying the full amount of bail in cash or by cashier's check directly to the court. If the accused attends all court hearings and fulfills their legal obligations, the cash bail amount is refunded at the conclusion of the case, regardless of the outcome.
• Surety Bond: A surety bond is the most common type of bail and is typically arranged through a bail bondsman or bail bond agency. The bail bondsman acts as a surety, providing a guarantee to the court that the accused will appear at all required court hearings. The defendant or their family typically pays the bail bondsman a non-refundable premium (usually around 10% of the total bail amount) as their fee. The bondsman then posts the full bail amount on behalf of the defendant, securing their release.
• Property Bond: A property bond allows the defendant or their family to use real estate or other valuable property as collateral to secure their release. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the court may foreclose on the property to satisfy the bail amount.
• Release on Recognizance (ROR): Sometimes, the court may release a person on their own recognizance without requiring them to post bail. This option is typically reserved for people who are considered low flight risks and who have no significant criminal history. The defendant will sign a written promise to attend all court hearings and comply with any conditions set by the court.
• Unsecured Bond: With an unsecured bond, the defendant is released without having to pay any money upfront. However, they may be required to pay the full bail amount if they fail to appear in court as scheduled.
• Signature Bond: A signature bond is similar to an unsecured bond. The defendant signs a written promise to appear in court, but no cash or property is required to secure their release.

The type of bail that will be required will depend on various factors, such as the severity of the charges, the defendant's criminal history, their ties to the community, and the judge's discretion. Bail laws and practices can differ significantly by jurisdiction, so it is essential to contact us if you or someone you know is seeking bail.

The bail bondsmen at Break Out Bail Bonds provide several benefits to people who are involved in the criminal justice system. Some of the key advantages include:

• Affordability: For many people, the full amount of bail set by the court can be prohibitively expensive. We offer the option to pay a percentage of the bail amount (usually around 10%) as a fee, making it more affordable for the accused or their families to secure their release.
• Prompt Release: When someone is arrested and taken into custody, our bail bondsmen can act quickly to post bail and secure the person's release from jail. This is especially important for people who need to resume work, take care of their families, or consult with an attorney.
• Expertise and Knowledge: Our bail bond agents are familiar with the legal process and the specific requirements for posting bail in different jurisdictions. We can guide clients through the process, ensuring all necessary paperwork is completed correctly and on time.
• Maintaining Employment: Being in jail can result in job loss, missed wages, and potential financial hardship. Bail bonds allow people to continue working and supporting themselves and their families while their case is pending.
• Presumption of Innocence: Bail bonds help uphold the principle of "innocent until proven guilty." Posting bail allows people to maintain their freedom while awaiting trial, rather than being held in custody, which could imply guilt before the trial takes place.
• Stress Reduction: Being incarcerated can be a highly stressful experience. By securing bail through Break Out Bail Bonds, people can avoid unnecessary stress and anxiety that may be associated with being in jail.
• Assistance to Law Enforcement: Our bail bondsmen help the police and law enforcement agencies by ensuring that people accused of non-violent offenses can be released promptly. This can free up jail space for more serious offenders and reduce overcrowding in detention facilities.

After you sign a bail bond contract, several steps are set in motion to secure the release of the defendant from jail. Here is what typically happens after you sign a bail bond contract:

• Payment: You will need to pay the bail bondsman the agreed-upon premium or fee, which is usually a percentage of the total bail amount (often around 10%). This payment is non-refundable and acts as our fee for our services.
• Documentation: You will be required to provide relevant information about the defendant, and you may need to sign various documents related to the bail bond. These documents may include an application, indemnity agreement (where you agree to be financially responsible for the full bail amount if the defendant fails to appear in court), and any other paperwork required by the bail bondsman or the court.
• Bail Posting: Once the bail bond contract is signed, we will immediately go to the jail or court to post the full bail amount on behalf of the defendant. This action secures the defendant's release from custody.
• Release from Jail: After the bail has been posted, the jail will process the paperwork and release the defendant from custody. The defendant is now free pending their court appearances.
• Court Appearances: The defendant is required to attend all scheduled court hearings. Failing to appear in court can result in the bail being forfeited, and the bail bondsman may seek to locate and apprehend the defendant.
• Case Resolution: The defendant's case will proceed through the legal system. If the defendant complies with all court requirements and the case concludes with a judgment or dismissal, the bail bond is discharged, and the bail bondsman's liability ends.

It is crucial to understand the terms and conditions of the bail bond contract thoroughly. If the defendant fails to appear in court, you, as the indemnitor, may be held financially liable for the full bail amount. Additionally, the bail bondsman has the right to use legal means, such as hiring a bounty hunter, to apprehend the defendant if they miss their court appearances.

If you have any questions or concerns about the bail bond process or the contract, it is essential to contact us to discuss your questions or concerns before signing the agreement.

If your bond is denied by the magistrate judge in Virginia, it means that the judge has determined that you do not meet the criteria for pretrial release, and you will remain in custody until your arraignment/initial appearance.

Here is what typically happens if your bond is denied:

• Continued Detention: If the magistrate judge denies your bond request, you will not be released from custody after the initial arrest process. Instead, you will be held in jail until your arraignment/initial appearance, which is usually the next business day.
• Arraignment/Initial Appearance: After the bond denial, you will be brought before a judge for your initial court appearance, usually within a short period, depending on the jurisdiction's procedures. At this hearing, the judge will formally inform you of the charges against you and advise you of your rights. Additionally, if you wish to seek a review of the bond denial, you or your attorney can request a bail hearing before the trial judge. This hearing will allow you to present evidence and arguments as to why you should be granted bail or have your bail conditions modified.
• Bond Hearing/Bond Reconsideration: During the bond hearing, you or your attorney can present evidence and arguments to demonstrate that you are not a flight risk or a danger to the community. The District Court judge will take into account various factors, such as your ties to the community, your criminal history, the nature of the charges, and any potential risk of not appearing in court. If the judge grants bail, then you can be released from custody. If the judge denies bail, your attorney can typically appeal that decision to the Circuit Court for a bond reconsideration.
• Bond Decision: The judge will weigh the arguments and evidence presented during the bail hearing and decide on whether to grant bail, deny bail again, or set new conditions for release. If the judge decides to grant bail, they will set the bail amount and any specific conditions that you must comply with while on pretrial release.
• Post-Bond Proceedings: If the judge grants you bail and you or your family or friends post the required bail amount or arrange for a bail bond, you will be released from custody. It is important to comply with all the court-ordered conditions and appear for all future court hearings to avoid any potential issues with your bond.

If your bond is denied, it is essential to work closely with your attorney to prepare a strong argument for a bail review and to navigate the legal process effectively. Legal representation can significantly impact your chances of being granted bail or having the denial reversed.

In Virginia, judges have discretion when setting a bond for defendants. The primary goal of setting bail is to ensure the defendant's appearance in court for all required hearings and to protect the community from potential harm. When determining the appropriate bond amount and conditions, judges may consider several factors related to the defendant and the specific case. Some of the key considerations include:

• Nature of the Offense: The seriousness of the alleged offense plays a significant role in bond determination. More severe crimes may lead to higher bail amounts or even the possibility of no bail being granted.
• Flight Risk: Judges assess the likelihood that the defendant will not appear in court if released on bail. Factors such as ties to the community, employment history, family support, and criminal history may be considered.
• Criminal History: A defendant's past criminal record, including prior convictions and pending charges, is taken into account when setting bail. Repeat offenders or those with a history of failing to appear in court may face higher bail amounts.
• Safety of the Community: Judges consider the potential risk the defendant poses to the community if released. This involves evaluating the circumstances of the alleged crime and the defendant's criminal history.
• Ties to the Community: Defendants with strong ties to the community, such as permanent residency, employment, family members, and community involvement, may have a better chance of receiving reasonable bail.
• Financial Ability: The judge may take into account the defendant's ability to pay the bail amount when making a determination. The purpose of bail is not to be punitive but to secure the defendant's appearance in court, so the bail should be affordable.
• Flight Risk and Safety Factors: If there are concerns that the defendant is a flight risk or a danger to the community, the judge may impose additional conditions on the bail, such as electronic monitoring, curfew, surrender of a passport, or orders to stay away from certain people or locations.
• Compliance With Pretrial Services: Some jurisdictions have pretrial services programs that assess and monitor defendants while they are released on bail. Judges may consider recommendations from these services when determining bail conditions.

A SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor) bracelet is an electronic monitoring device used to monitor a person's alcohol consumption continuously. It is typically used as a condition of pretrial release or probation for people facing alcohol-related offenses or with a history of alcohol abuse.

The SCRAM bracelet is worn around the ankle and measures the wearer's sweat for traces of alcohol. It uses transdermal alcohol testing technology to detect alcohol consumption through the skin. When a person consumes alcohol, it is metabolized in their body, and some of it is excreted through sweat. The SCRAM bracelet detects these alcohol metabolites in the wearer's sweat.

Here is how a SCRAM bracelet is used for determining bond or as a condition of pretrial release:

• Bond Determination: In some cases, particularly those crimes involving alcohol or multiple-offense DUI/DWI, a judge may order the use of a SCRAM bracelet as a condition of bail. By wearing the bracelet, the defendant can continue to remain out of custody pending trial, but they will have the added requirement of abstaining from alcohol.
• Sobriety Monitoring: The SCRAM bracelet provides continuous monitoring of the defendant's alcohol consumption throughout the pretrial period. This ensures compliance with the court's condition of not consuming alcohol while on release.
• Ensuring Public Safety: The use of a SCRAM bracelet can be seen as a measure to protect public safety. For people charged with DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or other alcohol-related offenses, the court may use the bracelet to prevent them from driving while under the influence during the pretrial period.
• Compliance Monitoring: Courts may order the use of a SCRAM bracelet for defendants with a history of alcohol abuse or those who have violated probation by consuming alcohol. The device can help ensure compliance with court orders and reduce the risk of further alcohol-related incidents.

We are the leaders when it comes to SCRAM bracelet devices, and we are one of the few bail bond companies that handles everything in-house. Please feel free to contact us if you have questions regarding the use of a SCRAM bracelet or if you would like us to assist with the fitting of one to help your loved one get out of jail.

A GPS bracelet, also known as an electronic monitoring device, is a device that uses Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to track the location and movements of a person. These devices are commonly used as a condition of pretrial release or probation for people involved in criminal cases. The device sends real-time data to a monitoring center, allowing authorities to track the person's movements and ensure compliance with court orders or restrictions.

Here is how a GPS bracelet is used for determining bond or as a condition of pretrial release:

• Bond Determination: In certain cases, a judge may order the use of a GPS bracelet as a condition of bail for people facing serious charges or who are considered a flight risk. By wearing the GPS bracelet, the defendant can be released from custody pending trial, but their movements are monitored to ensure they comply with court orders and do not leave specified areas.
• Location Monitoring: The GPS bracelet provides continuous tracking of the defendant's whereabouts. It can be used to enforce court-ordered restrictions, such as stay-away zones, curfews, or boundaries where the defendant is allowed to travel.
• Ensuring Compliance: For people on probation or pretrial release, the GPS bracelet serves as a measure to ensure they adhere to court-ordered conditions, such as maintaining distance from victims or avoiding specific locations.
• Public Safety: The use of GPS monitoring can be seen as a means to enhance public safety, especially in cases involving high-risk people or those who have been charged with serious offenses.
• Reducing Flight Risk: For defendants who are deemed at risk of not appearing in court, the GPS bracelet can serve as a deterrent to fleeing, as authorities can quickly locate and apprehend the person if they violate their release conditions.

We are the leaders when it comes to GPS monitoring devices, and we are one of the few bail bond companies that offer these devices. We offer GPS Watches in addition to ankle monitors. Please feel free to contact us if you have questions regarding the use of a GPS monitoring device or if you would like us to assist with the fitting of one to help your loved one get out of jail.

Break Out Bail Bonds is one of the few bonding companies in Northern Virginia that offers GPS watches instead of bulky and heavy GPS ankle monitors. Some of the benefits of GPS watches include:

• Convenience: GPS watches are typically more comfortable and less obtrusive to wear than ankle monitors. They are designed to be worn on the wrist, which is less restrictive and more familiar to many people.
• Discreetness: GPS watches are less conspicuous than ankle monitors, making them more suitable for people who wish to maintain a degree of privacy.
• Versatility: GPS watches often come with additional features such as fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, and smartphone connectivity. This makes them useful for tracking health and activity levels, in addition to location monitoring.
• User-Friendly: GPS watches are often designed with user-friendly interfaces and mobile apps, making it easier for the wearer to access and understand their location data.
• Wider Acceptance: Some people may prefer a GPS watch over an ankle monitor due to social acceptance or perceived stigma associated with traditional ankle monitors.

When choosing a bond company, we hope you consider the benefits of choosing Break Out Bail Bonds for your GPS monitoring needs. We are proud to offer these high-end services without additional expenses for you. This is just another reason why our firm has been recognized as one of the best bail bond companies in the Northern Virginia area! Please contact us to have one of our professional staff members assist you with the fitting of a GPS watch.

Contacting Break Out Bail Bonds is the right choice for securing the release of your family member or friend from jail for several important reasons:

• Expertise and Experience: Break Out Bail Bonds has a team of experienced bail bondsmen who are well-versed in the bail process and the legal system. We understand the complexities of bail, and we can guide you through the entire process, ensuring that everything is handled correctly and efficiently.
• Technologically Superior and First in Class: We are one of the few bail bond companies that offer SCRAM and GPS devices in-house. What further separates us from the competition is that we offer GPS watches instead of the bulky and heavy GPS ankle monitors that are offered by our competitors. Do not be ostracized in public by wearing ankle monitors that everyone can see. Come see what we can offer you here at Break Out Bail Bonds.
• 24/7 Availability: We are available around the clock, seven days a week. We understand that arrests can happen at any time, and getting your loved one out of jail quickly is crucial. You can count on us to be there when you need us the most.
• Fast and Efficient Service: We prioritize the prompt release of your family member or friend. With our streamlined procedures and extensive knowledge, we can expedite the bail process, getting your loved one back home as soon as possible.
• Multiple Payment Options: We offer flexible payment plans and accept various forms of payment, including credit cards, cash, Venmo, Zelle, CashApp, Western Union, bank wire, and MoneyGram. Our aim is to provide payment solutions that fit your financial situation.
• Discreet and Respectful: We understand that facing legal issues can be a sensitive and challenging experience. We handle each case with utmost discretion and respect, maintaining your privacy throughout the bail process.
• Excellent Customer Service: At Break Out Bail Bonds, we prioritize customer satisfaction. Our dedicated team is committed to providing excellent service, and we take pride in the positive reviews we have earned from our clients.
• Local Presence: As a locally-owned and owner-operated bail bond company, we are deeply rooted in the community. We have a thorough understanding of the local legal system, and we can provide tailored support specific to Northern Virginia.
• Compassionate Support: We understand the stress and emotions that come with having a loved one in custody. Our team is compassionate and supportive, offering you the reassurance and guidance you need during this challenging time.

By contacting us, you are choosing a reliable and caring partner to navigate the bail process with you. Our top priority is to help you get your family member or friend out of jail quickly, efficiently, and with minimal hassle. With our expertise and dedication to customer service, you can trust us to handle the bail process with professionalism and integrity.

Payment plans for bail bonds can be a valuable option for people and families who may find it challenging to pay the full bail amount upfront. At Break Out Bail Bonds, we understand the financial burden that posting bail can bring, and we strive to provide flexible solutions to assist our clients during this difficult time.

If you qualify, we are pleased to offer payment plans that allow you to spread the bail bond cost over a period, making it more manageable for your budget. Our goal is to help you secure the release of your loved one without unnecessary financial stress.

To ensure convenience and ease of payment, we accept various forms of payment, including:

• Cash: We accept cash payments for those who prefer this traditional method.
• Credit Card: You can make payments using any of the major credit cards, offering a quick and secure transaction.
• Venmo: For users of Venmo, we offer the convenience of this popular digital payment platform.
• Zelle: Zelle provides another seamless way to make payments directly from your bank account.
• CashApp: CashApp users can also make payments through this user-friendly app.
• Western Union: We accept Western Union payments for added flexibility.
• Bank Wire: Bank wire transfers are a reliable option for those who prefer direct transfers from their bank accounts.
• MoneyGram: MoneyGram is another option available for convenient payment.

By contacting us, you are choosing a reliable and caring partner to navigate the bail process with you. Our top priority is to help you get your family member or friend out of jail quickly, efficiently, and with minimal hassle. With our expertise and dedication to customer service, you can trust us to handle the bail process with professionalism and integrity.