State and federal court guidelines state the initial drug trafficking bonds will be set at a high amount. This is because the only thing the initial appearance judge will have is the arresting officer´s affidavit.

The arresting officer may claim that the accused was trafficking narcotics. As a result, the bond judge will find that the defendant is involved in illegal trafficking. Thus, he will set a six figure bond.

How Much is Bail for Drug Trafficking?

Most drug trafficking criminal cases to see bond amounts of $250,000. The defendant must hire a bail bondsman and pay $25,000 to get released from jail. The main reason for high trafficking bonds is to avoid the high risks of flight.

How Does The Court Determined The Amount Of The Bond?

It is important to remember that a bond judge and a trial judge are two different judges. A bond judge simply addresses the issue of bond; at best it is a thirty second hearing. The court will set bond if there is probable cause. The case is then sent for pre-file to the State Attorney´s office.

Can The Court Reduce The Amount Of Bond?

There are ways in which the bond can be reduced. A good criminal defense attorney can argue to the bond judge that the client has ties to the community. They can also argue the defendant’s educational background and work history. In addition, they can also argue the defendant’s lack of prior offenses. This will show that a defendant is unlikely to flee.

It is important to remember that ensuring the defendant´s presence in court is the main intent behind monetary bond. There are of course other concerns such as the community’s safety. However, most importantly what the court wants is to guarantee that the accused will go to court as they should.

What is a Nebbia Hold?

A trial court judge could have it reduced if a bond judge won’t reduce it. However, the trial judge will generally require a Nebbia bond. This type of bond will provide proof as to where the bond money will be coming from. It is also an affidavit explaining its origin. This is to guarantee that proceeds of drug trafficking are not covering the cost of the bond for his release.