Many people who are charged with a crime go to their initial hearing and allowed to stay out of jail until their court date. However, some people are required to serve time unless they can post bail.

A defendant posts bail by being released for giving money, which will not be returned until all matters related to the trial are released. The deposited money is meant to act as a guarantee that the defendant will show up for his or her court date.

Judges will determine bail based on the seriousness of the crime, the amount of evidence presented at the initial hearing, the financial circumstances of the defendant, and the flight risk of the defendant.

If you or anyone you know has been charged with a crime, contact the Appleton criminal defense lawyers of Kohler, Hart, & Priebe at 414-217-9595.