"Bail 101" - a primer on the rules of posting bail:
(Disclaimer: This should not be construed as legal advice. If you have an actual legal problem, always consult with a qualified attorney. In addition, the following is accurate for the State of Maryland. These rules may vary depending on each State's particular laws, or if it's a Federal matter being tried in a Federal court.)
What is bail?
Bail is money paid to the court to ensure that an arrested person who is released from jail will show up at all required court appearances.
Who can post bail for me?
You may post bail for yourself, have someone over 18 years old post it on your behalf or use a bondsman. The person posting bail for you assumes full responsibility for your appearance in court. If you fail to appear as required, a warrant will be issued for your immediate arrest and the bail will be forfeited. This means the State will get your money.
How can I post bail?
Bail may be posted in the following manner:
1. Cash Bail
A percentage may be posted for cash bonds. All bonds that are set at $2,500 or less may be posted with a cash deposit of 10%. However, the person posting cash bail is liable for the full amount. If you appear for trial or the charges are disposed of before trial, the amount posted will be refunded to you. If you do not appear, all cash posted will be forfeited and the full amount of bail becomes due.
2. Property Bail
Property (e.g. land or home) may be used to post bail, provided that the net equity in the property meets or exceeds the amount of bail.
When posting property, you need to present tax bills, assessment notices, copies of a recorded deed or other public records.
3. Intangible Assets
Acceptable intangible assets include:
a. Bankbooks and certificates of deposit (CDs) accepted at 100 percent of stated value,
b. Letters of credit from a bank,
c. Certificates for stocks listed on the American or New York Stock Exchange, accepted at 75 percent of the present exchange quotation.
4. Credit and Debit Cards
Bail may be charged on certain credit and debit cards. Although a commissioner or clerk accepts the card, an independent company processes the charge. The charge includes the amount of the bail and a service fee. These charges will appear on your next credit or debit card statement. The card and personal identification must be produced in person at the time of posting bail. (Contact a District Court commissioner or clerk for information on cards accepted and the fees charged.)
5. Professional Bail Bondsman
A bail bondsman charges a non-refundable fee to post bail. In addition to the fee, the bondsman may require collateral security or property to secure your release. Collateral will be returned to the person who posted it after disposition of the charges. The service fee and collateral received must be displayed on the bail bond form.
For the telephone number of a bondsman consult the Yellow Pages under the “Bail Bonds.”