The Bail Bond Process
1. Arrest and Booking
When a person is arrested in North Carolina:
They are taken to jail.
Law enforcement records personal details, the alleged offense, fingerprints, and a mugshot.
​2. Setting Bail
After booking, a judge or magistrate determines whether the defendant is eligible for bail and sets the bail amount, based on:
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Severity of the crime
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Criminal history
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Risk of flight
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Community ties
There are typically four types of release:
Unsecured bond: No money paid up front, but the defendant owes the amount if they fail to appear.
Written promise to appear: Released without paying money, based on a promise to return.
Cash bond: Full amount must be paid in cash.
Secured bond: Money or property must be pledged (often using a bail bondsman).​​
​3. Using a Bail Bondsman
If the bail is high and the defendant can't afford to pay, they can use a licensed bail bondsman.
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​4. Release from Jail
Once the bond is posted (either by paying the full amount or through a bondsman), the defendant is released from jail under the condition they will:
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Attend all court hearings
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Abide by any restrictions (e.g., travel limits, no contact orders)
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5. After Release
If the defendant appears in court as required, the bond is dissolved at the end of the case.
Any cash paid directly to the court may be refunded, minus court fees.
If the defendant fails to appear, the court may:
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Issue a bench warrant for their arrest
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Forfeit the bail
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Require the bondsman to pay the full bail (who may then pursue the defendant or seize collateral)​