If you or a loved one is arrested in New York, one of the first questions that comes to mind is, “Will I have to post bail?” Understanding how bail works is crucial, especially if you’re navigating the legal system for the first time. At Vasiliou Law, based in Queens and serving all five boroughs and Nassau County, we’ve helped countless clients through this process. Here’s what you need to know about how bail works in New York and what to expect after an arrest.
Bail is essentially a financial guarantee that allows someone who’s been arrested to be released from custody while their case is pending. It’s meant to ensure that the person returns to court for their scheduled appearances. If they comply with all court requirements, the bail money is returned at the end of the case, regardless of the outcome. If they fail to appear, they risk forfeiting the money and facing additional legal trouble.
In recent years, New York has made significant changes to its bail laws. These reforms, aimed at reducing the number of people held in jail simply because they can’t afford bail, eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non-violent felonies.
However, there are still cases where bail is set, particularly for violent felonies, repeat offenses, or cases where the court determines the individual poses a flight risk. Judges now consider factors like the severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and their ties to the community when deciding whether to set bail.
Once someone is arrested in New York, they’re taken into custody and brought before a judge for an arraignment. At this hearing, the charges are formally presented, and the judge decides whether to:
Your attorney plays a critical role during this stage. At Vasiliou Law, we work to convince the judge that you’re not a flight risk, emphasizing factors like steady employment, community ties, and a lack of prior criminal history.
If the judge decides to set bail, the amount can vary widely depending on the charges and circumstances. Bail can be paid in different forms:
If you or a family member can’t afford bail, it’s important to discuss your options with your attorney.
If you’re unable to post bail, you’ll remain in custody until your case is resolved. This can make it harder to prepare your defense and disrupt your life significantly. At Vasiliou Law, we fight to minimize pretrial detention by advocating for bail reductions or release on recognizance whenever possible.
Navigating the bail process can be stressful, but having an experienced attorney on your side makes all the difference. At Vasiliou Law, we know how to present a strong argument for your release, ensuring that your rights are protected from the moment you’re arrested.
Whether you’re facing charges in Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, the Bronx, Staten Island, or Nassau County, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Being arrested is overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Vasiliou Law, we’re committed to helping our clients understand their rights, secure their release, and build a strong defense.
If you or a loved one has been arrested in New York City or Nassau County, contact us today at 347-967-6141 or visit www.svlawpartners.com for a confidential consultation. We’re here to fight for your freedom and peace of mind.
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