A pair of handcuffs poking through prison bars. Rep. Chris England, D-Tuscaloosa, has filed a bill that would give judges the authority to set a percentage bond instead of the full amount. (File/Getty)
A state representative has filed a bill that could overhaul Alabama’s approach to bail.
HB 42 , sponsored by Rep. Chris England, D-Tuscaloosa, would give a judge the authority to allow defendants to pay a percentage of their bail amounts to be released from pretrial detention.
When people are placed into custody after an arrest, they can secure their release by paying a preset amount of bail, based on the offense the person is charged with. Individuals who pay the full amount can be released, and that amount is kept with the court until their case is resolved. That deposit is returned so long as they continue to appear in court.
Those unable to pay the full amount can secure the services of a bail bond company who will charge a premium for their services, typically quoted at 10% of the value of the bond, which they pocket. The person is then released, and the bail bond company takes over the responsibility to ensure the defendant appears in court.