Wouldn’t it be cool if there were real “Get Out of Jail Free” cards?
Defendants can use a real “Get Out of Jail Free” card known as releasing someone “on his own recognizance,” also known as “O.R.”
While the process is a bit different than in the Monopoly board game, some people can still be released.
“Defendants can sometimes get out of jail without having to pay bail,” said Inessa Chavez, vice president of All American Bail Bonds in Santa Clarita, “but it’s often unlikely.”
Defendants who are unable to be released on their own recognizance often ask a judge if their bail can be lowered and depending on a variety of factors, the judge may approve the request.
“A defendant released O.R. must simply sign a promise to show up in court. He doesn’t have to post bail,” Chavez said. “A defendant commonly requests release on his own recognizance at his first court appearance. If the judge denies the request, he then asks for low bail.”
What factors may convince a judge to grant an O.R. release, according to All American Bail Bonds in Santa Clarita:
- The defendant has parents, a spouse or children living in the community.
- The defendant has lived in the community for many years.
- The defendant is employed.
- The defendant has little or no past criminal record, or their previous criminal problems were minor and occurred many years earlier.
- The defendant has been charged with previous crimes and has always appeared as required.
“In general, defendants who are released O.R. have strong ties to a community, making them unlikely to flee,” Chavez said. “Those who are let out on O.R. tend to be reputable in their community and law enforcement officials know the person is highly unlikely to run away.”
Agents at All American Bail Bonds in Santa Clarita have dealt with a variety of cases regarding O.R. and are prepared to work with the defendant.
“We want to help you in any way possible,” Chavez said. “We have agents standing by to assist you with any questions regarding bail.”
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If loved one in custody and they wish to talk to an All American Bail Bonds representative call:
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