How Realistic Is The Bail Process on Television Shows?

For those who frequently watch crime drama shows on TV like CSI, the word “bail” should be a familiar one. But what does it mean when you need ‘bail in real life? How similar is the TV bail process to the one in real life?

Well, they are actually pretty similar. Though the bail process in TV shows is more dramatic and straightforward, the basic policies are the same as in real life. A person who is arrested and booked for a crime will be either granted or denied bail depending on the judge and how serious the crime. Petty crimes like shoplifting and vandalism usually allow bail, but a serious crime like murder typically do not allow bail.

A bail is set by a judge, and just like on TV, the defendant will consult with his or her attorney to persuade the judge to decrease the bail amount, or even release the defendant on his own recognizance (but this is only allowed for relatively minor crimes).

The judge decides on the bail amount after full review of the situation, factors, which includes the bail schedule for a particular locality, the type of crime committed, the criminal history of the defendant, and the risk of the defendant failing to show up for trial. Sometimes, the judge’s personality can play into determination as well.

If you happen to be in such a situation, be calm and polite. Yelling at the judge or police authorities will only increase your bail penalty or even get you denied bail altogether. If you are unable to pay your bail (a typical arson charge can cost you a bail of up to $75,000), call BailQuote.  BailQuote is a bail bonds company that can help pay your bail at any time, any day, even in the middle of the night. Being in the position of a defendant is already intensely stressful; let BailQuote help lessen it by settling your bail.