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Finding an arrested loved one

The United States has more than two million citizens behind bars, and many of them, if not all of them, have family members on the outside worrying about them. For the spouse or partner on the outside, there is an emotional and traumatic impact on the family. It is complicated and overwhelming for the children, disruptive of the household routine, and then there is the financial strain incarceration creates, including the process of arranging for bail bonds.

Fortunately, for all of the things mentioned above, finding a bail bonds company is the easiest part. There is at least one on every corner around a jail, on bus benches, and billboards.  By any chance, you don’t see any of those. You can always do a Google search for ‘bail bonds near me,’ and you’ll get more than you can contact, and you can even find answers about bail bonds specifically. 

As the family member on the outside, if you’ve never experienced having a loved one incarcerated, you probably have a lot of questions, and concerned about your loved one. Once you have received that ‘one phone call’ and got over the initial shock, learning about bail bonds is the first thing you need to do. 

Like learning about bail bonds and how they work and will bail bonds be the end of your worries, or is this just the start of a long journey. Any concerns or questions about bail bonds are best left to an attorney to answer. While we can’t answer all your questions and address all of your concerns in this article, we have selected a few of the most common questions to answer. 

What do you do when a loved one is incarcerated?

When a loved one is arrested and sentenced to time behind bars, the challenge is the unknown, and the unknown is what leaves us feeling a loss of control over or lives. After you have handled the bail bonds issue and have secured legal counsel, the first thing, and the best thing you can do is to gain control over the situation. 

To start gaining that control, use the time to prepare yourself, the family, and the loved one that is incarcerated. Talk about what could be ahead for the incarcerated one and how it will affect the family. You need to get prepared emotionally, mentally, and financially, especially if the loved one is the family breadwinner. After researching bail bonds and posting bail, your finances are hit hard, and this will become a huge focus in the future. 

Know that there are psychological stages that you, the family, and the loved one will go through, and this is normal. Instead of the emotions controlling everyone’s actions, learn to realize when those emotions are building, and learn how to work with them. 

For the children, preparing them for the possibility that the loved one may be gone for a time will be the hardest part. Young children don’t understand finances, and they won’t understand the emotional strain that comes from the financial strain of paying bail bonds fees and dealing without that paycheck. 

How do I leave a message for an inmate?

Having a loved one imprisoned is not a good experience for either party, the incarcerated, or those on the outside. As much as you’re going through processing this situation, life inside jail or prison isn’t a fun place either. Inmates have few privileges, no privacy or freedom, most of which you understand after calling around for bail bonds, they won’t have much after they are released. 

During this time, your loved one will likely lean on you for support. You can contact the facility the loved one is incarcerated and find out the specifics for contacting them or sending them gifts and staples. Each facility will have necessary state policies, and each will have their policies. In Alleghany County, the following is a general idea of what you can do and expect: 

• Phone calls: Ask if it is possible to leave messages and if there is a specific number to call. 
• Care Package and Mail: Inmates are usually allowed to receive letters. Call the unit they are incarcerated and ask for the address, and how to address it, so it gets to your loved one. 
• Sending Funds: You may wonder what a prisoner could need while behind bars, but there are some luxuries they can acquire, like snacks through a vending machine. In addition to their three meals each day, they can pay extra for some things, like soft drinks and sweets. 
• Visitors: Most facilities allow a certain number of visitors that have to be preapproved. The visiting days and times are specific to each facility. Calling the facility and asking their specifics is recommended. 

What do you say to someone in jail?

Frequent contact by phone and in-person visitations. Keep them up-to-date on what’s going on with the family and friends. Talk about what’s going on with the world, and listen to them. Bring recent pictures, a book to read together and share any good news with them.  

While they are in a wrong way being locked up, share your problems with them too. These are things that will help them remember there are issues besides there. Ask advice on how to handle your financial woes, problems at work, or issues with a neighbor. Please give them a semblance of normalcy amid their worries and make them feel they are still a part of your life outside. Don’t forget, anniversaries, birthdays, and holidays. 

How do you make a prisoner feel loved?

Don’t forget them, don’t ignore them. As hard as this time is for you, it is worse for them, especially when they know they are the cause of your worries. If you can’t make the weekly visit, send cards and letters, enclose pictures of the kids and their other loved ones. They may be behind bars, but they are still humans and need to be treated as a person with feelings. 

What information do you need to write an inmate?

Writing to a loved one that is in prison will be a special gift for them.  A person that is incarcerated doesn’t have any outside contact so that a personal letter can bring them a smile in an otherwise bleak situation. Writing to a person incarcerated will be read by jail or prison officials. Don’t write about anything that could cause your loved one’s problems. Choose the topics and tone with care. You want to make sure it is addressed correctly, include their prisoner number, and make sure your name and the return address is on the envelope. 

If you are going to send something with the letter, make sure you check the guidelines and follow them exactly. Scented stationery, glitter, stickers, and other items will get your letter trashed. The prison may open your correspondence. Don’t say anything that could cause repercussions for your correspondent, such as disparaging remarks about prison officials. Sexual or violent content is likely to prevent your letter from being delivered.

Refrain from badgering the person about why they are incarcerated. They may ask how things are going on the outside, mostly the financial strain they have put the family under. Answer their questions honestly but without an accusing or argumentative tone. Need bail bonds to help your loved one? Call 706-353-6467 today for bail bonds in Jefferson, GA.

Defining violence

Domestic violence is one of those things that was always brushed up under the rug and never discussed.  In some circles of society, it was expected and accepted as usual. Today though, the outlook has changed, and the legal system has taken a stance on domestic violence punishment. 

While domestic violence is at the top of the list, it isn’t the only type of violence. Regardless of what type of violence a person is experiencing, it is an epidemic with no limits of borders or respect. Five of the different types of violence that people experience daily around the globe are: 

• Bullying: This is the act of repeatedly emotionally or physically victimizing a person. It can be in the form of kicking or punching, intimidating, or threatening, excluding from group participation, and spreading of rumors. 
• ​Child Abuse:  The legal definition of child abuse and child neglect can differ between states, but the federal definition of child abuse or child neglect is stated as follows:  “Any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation; or an act or failure to act, which presents an imminent risk of serious harm.”  Most states enforce laws within this definition. 
• Community Violence: Directly or indirectly exposing a person to an act of interpersonal violence when unrelated to them. Examples of these acts would be burglary, mugging, sexual assault, teen gangs, and racial division. 
• Domestic Violence: This is when emotional, physical, and sexual violence takes place between two adults in their home, usually married or partners. Emotional violence in the home between two adults, regularly partners, is considered domestic violence.
• ​School Violence: Included in this type of violence is bullying, fighting, gang violence, intimidating, kicking, punching, or slapping and can take place on school property, to or from school, and before, during, or after school or a school-sponsored event.

How serious is a domestic violence charge?

The State of Georgia takes a severe view of domestic violence and will punish those crimes with harsh sentencing. Is there domestic violence bail? Yes, but depending on circumstances, the accused’s a criminal background, and other factors, the judge will likely set the bail at the highest amount possible. 

Is domestic violence punishable?

Yes, and punishment handed down is often more strict than other crimes. Domestic violence crimes have set higher fines as well, and longer imprisonment periods in Georgia than other crimes. Fine for an initial domestic violence battery is $1,000.00 with twelve-month jail time. 

Is a domestic violence conviction a felony?

Subsequent domestic violence charges are given a fine of $5,000.00 and a twelve-month maximum jail sentencing with the possibility of charges being treated as a felony and a five-year prison term. 

How many years do you get for domestic violence?

For a first time charge, the accused could be sentenced to twelve months of jail time. A repeat offender, jail time could range between twelve months and five years.  The accused’s criminal background and the circumstances leading up to the domestic violence act. 

How do most domestic violence cases end?

Like any criminal charges, your life will be forever affected and changed. If there are children involved, the accused will be removed from the home, and visitation rights will be denied or supervised.  Because the accused is removed from the home, finding a place to live can be challenging as most places do not allow convicted criminals to live on premises like an apartment. 

The accused’s job may be at risk, and future employment will be difficult to obtain. It the accused is not an American citizen; they may be deported or denied American citizenship and will not be allowed to reenter the country. The accused may lose all rights to firearm ownership or possession as well. 

Once a person has experienced domestic violence, and their accused has been arrested, placed behind bars and removed from the premise doesn’t mean it is over for them. How does domestic violence affect the victim? Survivors of domestic violence face challenging and ongoing effects after experiencing emotional, mental, and physical abuse. How quickly they “bounce” back can vary from person to person, and many never recover. The pain and emotional scars can be everlasting and overwhelming. Each person has a journey to find their strength. Reach out to Double "O" Bonding for bail bonds by dialling 706-353-6467.

Learn More About Theft

Theft is a crime that encompasses many types which will provide different penalties and charges dependent on the case. Theft charges may also be different per state so it’s important to familiarize yourself with what is considered a theft in Georgia. As such, theft is something to take seriously as it is considered a crime. In the state of Georgia there will be many types of theft and therefore there will be many different legal penalties and procedures that will be enacted once an arrest has been made. In order to get the help that you need relevant to your case it’s best to reach out to a legal representative for help with theft. Your local bail bondman may also be of assistance to you after an arrest has been made. Before you start to take action with a theft charge, here is some information surrounding theft that may prove useful to you.

What is the definition of theft in law?

Theft in law is a generic term for all crimes where a person will intentionally take personal property of another person without their permission or consent with the intent to convert it to the taker’s use (including potential sale.)

Why is stealing a crime?

Theft or stealing are crimes since they are unauthorized and without the consent of the person something is being taken from. Theft can range in severity under three different cartetogies: larceny, embezzlement and false pretenses. 

What is the most common type of theft?

The most common type of theft is larceny with over 7 million reported in the US each year making up almost 60% of reported crimes. The second most prevalent crime is burglary which is also a property crime.

Types of Theft in GA

• shoplifting
• theft of services
• theft of lost or mislaid property
• theft by deception
• theft by conversion
• theft by extortion

What happens when someone presses charges against you for stealing?

Someone may be charged with a crime in general before an arrest is made beyond just the crime of theft. In these cases, a judge will issue a warrant for an arrest while a police officer will try to track where the person is. If the person is located by an officer and arrested the police must give a copy of the warrant which states the charge to the person being arrested.

Is theft a felony or misdemeanor?

Theft is considered a felony or misdemeanor depending on the amount of cash or property stolen. Typically theft of property valued more than $500 is a felony and less than $500 is a misdemeanor in Georgia. Yet in some cases theft of $500 or more can be a misdemeanor or felony depending on the judge’s discretion and the severity of the left.

What defines petty theft?

A petty theft and grand larceny can both be defined as the unlawful taking and carrying away of personal property of another without consent given by that person. 

What is considered grand theft in Georgia?

Grand theft in Georgia can be considered property valued by $1500 or less OR $1500 or more. Which ever it is considered to be will have either a misdemeanor charge (former) or a felony charge (the latter.)

What is theft of services in Georgia?

Theft of services in Georgia is considered deception with the intent to avoid payment for knowingly obtaining services, accommodation, or the use of personal property all of which can only be available with compensation. Convictions of theft of services with the value of property being under $1500 is considered a misdemeanor while $1500 or more is considered a felony offense.

What is the penalty for theft by taking in Georgia?

The penalty of theft by taking in Georgia can be either a misdemeanor or felony. A misdemeanor can have a fine of no more than $1000 and a jail sentence no more than 12 months. A felony will have a prison sentence of no less than one year and no more than ten years. 

Get Assistance With Theft By Getting a Bail Bond

Theft can range in severity depending on the type of theft as well as other circumstances. It’s important that you get familiar with the types of penalties and proceedings that follow after you or someone you know has been charged with the crime of theft. If you or someone you know has been charged with theft consider getting theft charge bail with your local bail bonds company. Theft can range in fines and costs and a bail bond can help with this as only a portion of the bail amount is paid to get out of jail. Await trial at home by getting assistance through a bail bond. If you have any questions get in touch with your lawyer and bail bondmen for more information.

If you need help with theft in Jefferson, GA call 706-353-6467 with Double "O" Bonding! 

How Much is Bail for Aggravated Assault?

When it comes to accusations and charges of aggravated assault, the courts system handles the specifics in a case by case manner. In the state of Georgia, assault is the striking of someone by hand or with an object. The strike or attack does not necessarily have to land and threats of related violence can be included in an assault charge. Other examples can include:

• Threatening bodily harm
• Punching 
• Shoving

An aggravated assault, which is a felony in the state of Georgia, is carried out with intents to steal from, violate, or end the life of the targeted person. While aggravated assault is on a list of thirteen offenses in which the charged person cannot be bailed, however, the charged person can be released on bond depending on the judge. Furthermore, the sentence tends to lean on a minimum of one year to a maximum of twenty. Furthermore, the charged person(s) may also be responsible for restitution to the victim. So while aggravated assault can very well be considered a step further than assault, as our system works the crime must be proven. When it comes to assault, you can trust Double "O" Bonding for bail services in Jefferson, GA. Call 706-353-6467 today to schedule your appointment with our experts that can advise on what to do when charged with aggravated assault and provide bail services.

Which is Worse Aggravated Assault or Battery?

Aggravated assault and battery are similar in nature, in technicality battery simply means the crime was completed or carried out. However, presently it common for the courts to view both crimes equally due to them both being within the same field. In Georgia, they can both be charged to a person. As it pertains to crimes like simple assault and battery, both can be misdemeanors and worked within such regard that the person does not have to take a hefty amount of punishment. That however is not the case with aggravated assault, which is a felony and carries with it harsher punishments as mentioned before. So, therefore, aggravated assault is worse than battery by itself. 

In the case of aggravated battery, a person receives much of the same penalties as aggravated assault. That is fines of up to 100 thousand, up to 20 years in prison, and restitution to afflicted parties plus additional fines if applicable. To note, aggravated assault and aggravated battery are both crimes that are restricted from bail, whereas simple assault and battery allow a person to be bailed out if the presiding judge deems it as appropriate or justified. 

How can Aggravated Assault Charge be Dropped?

The charge and accusation of aggravated assault tend to stem from particularly violent crimes carried out with the intention of doing serious damage. That is why is highly abnormal for the charge of aggravated assault to be dropped to a misdemeanor, but there have been cases in which a plea can be offered depending on correlating circumstances. For instance, if the weapon that is believed to be used in the crime cannot be traced or that the harm that occurred as a result of the crime did not necessarily happen because of the accused person’s actions. 

In the case of the charge of aggravated assault or aggravated battery being dropped, it is possible, but it is not common. The more normal happening occurs with the serious charge of aggravated assault or aggravated battery being dropped to simple assault or simple battery respectively if not something as lesser. Both of the latter charges as mentioned before are misdemeanors that are significantly lesser in their charges against a person and do not necessarily carry with them any noticeable charges that a person will suffer from long term. If you were to be having trouble with the misdemeanor charges of battery or assault, Double "O" Bonding can help deal with them by providing bail services.

How Long can you sit in Jail without a set Court Date?

For a misdemeanor charge, you are legally entitled to a trial within the time period of thirty days’ time. This is after you have made or entered a plea. Upon not being held in custody, the court will set a trial within the timespan of forty-five days after you have entered a plea. Generally, for a felony, a court date can take a significant amount of time to get with some accounts detailing it taking up to two years before a resolution occurs. Aggravated assault can more than likely be considered in the latter frame of time with the accused if not already charged having to enter into the process and be within the system which may take between months to years until a resolution is reached. Sometimes, a prosecutor will dismiss charges considered without prejudice, meaning they can be dealt with at a later date that those involved with will be made aware of. When it comes to dealing with a wide array of charges and accusations, Double "O" Bonding in Jefferson, GA can assist with our services. Call 706-353-6467 today to schedule your appointment and get your bond today.

What are the 7 types of bail?

Normally, when you are arrested and jailed, a judge will set a bail amount that you will have to pay to get released. Often, you will need a bail bonds service to help you get out of jail, depending on the type of bail bond that’s set. In general, there are seven types of bail bonds that could be set for your release.

• Citation release: Normally issued for minor offenses like traffic violations or shoplifting under a certain amount. Instead of being booked and jailed, you are given a citation at the scene that orders you to appear in court on a certain date.
• Recognizance release: In certain circumstances, if you are jailed, instead of setting bail, the judge may release you on your own recognizance. This usually occurs for first offenders for minor offenses, when the judge feels certain you are not a flight risk.
• Cash bail: If you have the cash on hand for any bail amount, you can pay in cash and get released. In many cases, only cash is accepted, but some corrections departments will accept cashier’s checks or credit cards.  
• Surety bond: This is one of the more common ways to get released and requires the services of a bail bond agent. In this case, you contact a friend or family member to go to the bail bond agent. A fee is paid to the bond agent, usually about 10% of the bond amount, and the bonds agent pays the bail.
• Property bond: In this form of bond, you put personal property up as collateral to be released. This type of bond can take some time to secure because the value of the property has to be assessed before it’s agreed upon.
• Federal bonds: A bond similar to a property bond. If you are jailed for a federal crime, you deal directly with the court instead of a bond agent for release.
• Immigration bail: There are actually two types of immigration bonds. A delivery bond works similarly to a regular bail bond. Departure bonds, on the other hand, are an agreement that the detainee agrees to be released only if they elect to return to their country of origin at a set time.

Anytime you need assistance getting out of jail and you require bond services in Jefferson, GA, the trusted professionals to count on are those at Double "O" Bonding. We are available 24/7. All you have to do is call 706-353-6467.

What is the most common type of bail?

Among all the different types of bail, probably the most common is using a bail bonds service to get a surety bond. Bond amounts are often too high for cash bonds, and people normally want to get out of jail quickly. Property bonds can take a week or more, whereas a surety bond can take just a matter of hours.

What is Bond and Bail?

While we often use bail and bond interchangeably, they actually are different. Bail is the amount the judge sets for your release. Sometimes the judge determines the amount, in other circumstances, there may be a bail schedule set for certain offenses. Bond is the amount secured from a bail bonds service so the bond agent can arrange for the release. You pay the bond agent a percentage of the bail amount and they pay the bail. 

Which type of bail is similar to a credit contract

Unsecured bonds are similar to a credit contract. Unsecured bonds are not backed by any collateral. In this case, instead of going through a bail bonds service, the defendant signs a contract to appear before the court. If the defendant fails to show up, they must pay an agreed-upon bail amount.

How does a judge determine bail?

Several things come into play when a judge determines bail. Among the most significant aspects is the severity of the crime. Misdemeanor offenses, for instance, may have lower bail amounts than felonies. In fact, some misdemeanor offenses may have a set amount based on a schedule. Another factor that will influence what the judge sets for bail is the person’s past. A first offender, for instance, might be released on recognizance, while bail for a repeat offender could be set very high. The person’s criminal history, their connection to the community, and their trustworthiness will play into the judge’s decision. If you seem to be a flight risk, for instance, bail will probably be set fairly high. 

Types of bail hearings

Generally, there is one type of bail hearing. You and usually your attorney will go before the judge and make a request for bail. The judge examines the case and your record and determines how much in bail you need to pay to be released. Most of the time the amount is determined by the judge. Occasionally, a bail hearing may be held after a person is convicted of a crime. This might happen if the defendant is appealing the case, but this type of hearing is rare.

Different types of bail conditions

While the primary condition of bail is that you return to court on your appointed date, judges may set other conditions before granting bail. You may, for instance, be required to make pre-trial check-ins with pretrial service officers who monitor you to ensure you’re complying with all the conditions set by the court. Often, you may also be given no-contact orders, preventing you from making contact with alleged crime victims. This often occurs in domestic violence or stalking cases. Other restrictions and conditions may also apply. You might have to remain employed or actively search for work, you might have travel or firearms restrictions placed on, or you may have to refrain from using drugs or alcohol. When you enlist a bail bonds service to get you released our primary concern is to see that you return to court on your appointed date, but we also want to make sure you comply with other conditions as well. 

How long do you stay in jail if you can’t pay bail?

The unfortunate reality is that if you can’t afford to pay the bail, you usually will have to stay in jail until your court date. Unfortunately, you can be waiting in jail for several months. This is why you want to get help from a bail bonds service. Even if it may be difficult to pay the fee, we can get you out in a matter of hours. Most bond agents like those at Double "O" Bonding offer several payment options so you can afford to pay the fee.

What is bail reform

There are several organizations across the nation working to establish better laws surrounding bail and the amount of bail charged in some instances. These groups take several approaches to reduce the amounts of bail, as well as the number of people in jail who can’t afford to pay bail amounts. Some provide voluntary supervisory services to the courts that act as a substitute for detention. Others work with local, state, and federal governments to develop laws and strategies to improve the situation. 

Call Today For Help

If criminal charges have been brought against you and you want to be released from jail, you want an established bail bonds service in Jefferson, GA to help you out. You can always count on help from Double "O" Bonding. We are available 24/7 to help. All you need to do is call 706-353-6467.

What to do when you get a felony charge

For most people, getting a parking ticket or speeding ticket, or being arrested for shoplifting is bad news. What about being charged with a felony though? This is something that happens in movies or television, but how many people do you know that have this happen in your life? How would you handle it if somebody’s one phone call from jail was asking you to post bail for felony assault or post bail for felony vandalism, or worse felony bail for theft?

Would you know what to do, who to call?  Do you even know what the difference between “bail” and “bond” is? If you’ve never had to deal with this aspect of the law, you probably know no more about what felony bail or bond is than what you’ve seen on the latest Netflix series you’re watching. While a lot of what you see in movies and on television is true, just as much or more aren’t.  Read on as we provide answers to some of the most basic questions about bail, bond, felony charges, and more.

What does a bail mean?

As defined by Wikipedia, felony bail is when a judge sets pre-trial restrictions on the suspect in order to ensure that they will comply with the court’s process. It is the conditional release where the defendant commits to the court, they will appear at all court dates as required. In the United States, bail typically implies a bail bond.

What is the difference between a bond and bail?

A felony bail is what a person arrested on felony charges, or somebody on behalf of the defendant pays in cash. A bond is paid by or secured by a third party, a bail bondsman, that they will pay the full bail amount if the defendant doesn’t appear at any required court hearing. In most cases, a bail bondsman requires a fee, 10% of the bail is common, from the defendant as collateral. The defendant can pay this in money or other collateral, such as real estate or a vehicle.

Bail and bond are related, both referring to requirements imposed by a judge, typically of financial means, that backs the defendant’s promise to appear at all court proceedings.  There are two forms of bonds: Secured and unsecured. A secured bond is when the defendant pays money or puts up tangible property to secure their release from jail. An unsecured bond requires the defendant to sign a document promising to pay the bail if they break the conditions of the bond. There are four different bond categories under secured and unsecured bonds:

• Released on Recognizance
• Cash – This is the bail reference
• Property – the title to real estate, vehicle, etc. is signed over
• Surety – a third party takes responsibility for the debt and defendant obligation

Can you get bail for a felony?

There are factors that a judge will consider before setting a felony bail amount. However, if a judge sets a felony bail, it is not always in the best interest of the arrested to post bail, especially if it felony charges.

The first phone call should be to an experienced felony defense attorney. They can review the facts and determine if a request to lower bail is possible, maybe even have bail removed. The attorney may recommend not posting felony bail because the chances of having the charges dropped are possible.

How much is bail for a felony?

Felony bail usually ranges between $1,500 up to $50,000 but can reach thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the crime and any other crime committed during the felony. The United States Constitution prohibits felony bail being in an excessive amount. Prior to setting felony bail, the judge will listen to the defense and the prosecution arguments and consider the following facts:  

1. The nature of the offense
2. The defendant’s employment, finances
3. The defendant’s family and community standing
4. The length of the defendant’s residence
5. The defendant’s age, mental condition, reputation
6. The defendant’s criminal history

Can you bail out of jail after sentencing?

Sometimes, yes. After conviction, posting bail will keep some defendants out of jail.  A person who has been accused of a crime has rights to felony bail that will let them out of prison pending their trial, even after they have been convicted and sentenced, as they appeal that conviction.

Can a felon bail someone out of jail?

Yes, but for the felon’s own legal status, they should verify with their probation office first. Some probation terms may not allow this because the law would consider it associating with a known criminal, even an accused criminal, could be in violation.

Any type of legal trouble beyond the basic parking ticket or speeding ticket, the first call should be to an attorney. This is the best way to protect yourself and the outcome of the situation. Immediately posting bail, as we stated earlier, is not always in the best interest of the accused. Call 706-353-6467 today for your felony bail needs in Jefferson, GA.

Dealing With Arrests, Charges, and Bail

For many, one of the best parts about living in our state is the fact that we allow for concealed carry. Anyone with a legal license can carry a firearm or other weapon to feel safer and better protected. It’s important to stress the fact that you must legally obtain a license in order to carry in this state. Failure to do so can result in arrests, fines, and even possible jail time. If you have been caught or arrested for a weapons violation in Jefferson, GA, contact Double "O" Bonding at 706-353-6467. We can help you get back on your feet and defend yourself. 

What is a Weapons Charge?

A weapons charge is a universal or blanket term referring to a broad set of charges involving weapons, which are generally separated into two categories: possession and use. Yes, someone can be charged and convicted for possession of such an item without ever harming or threatening to harm another. Weapons charges and violations are serious offenses and need to be treated just as seriously. Here are a few examples of weapons violations in the state of Georgia.

• Carrying Without a License: Georgia is a concealed carry state, which means you are allowed to carry as long as you are licensed to. However, if you are caught carrying without a license or proper documentation, you can be arrested, charged, and potentially jailed. First offenses are generally misdemeanors while subsequent offenses can be charged as felonies.  
• Carrying in Specific Places: Even with a license to carry, you are not allowed to bring weapons into courthouses, places of worship, polling places, and more. Anyone caught carrying a weapon such as a firearm or knife will likely face misdemeanor charges. 
• Possession by a Felon or Minor: Convicted felons are lawfully unable to be in possession of weapons, unless you have an explicit pardon. Punishment will be dependent on your previous crimes. Furnishing a weapon to a minor is a felony charge while minors in possession of a weapon could be charged with a misdemeanor.  
• Prohibited Weapons: Anyone in possession of a prohibited weapon could face automatic jail time up to five years. But what is a prohibited weapon? In Georgia, it is illegal to possess sawed off shotguns, guns with silencers, machine guns, and other dangerous weapons such as rocket launchers, mortars, and hand grenades. 
• Illegal Use: There is also the matter of illegal use in Georgia. This is classified as the act of unlawfully committing or threatening to commit an act with a weapon. It is a misdemeanor to point a loaded or unloaded gun at someone, regardless of intent; firing a gun on someone else’s property without their permission; firing a gun within 50 yards of a public road or highway; and firing a gun under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

Is there a weapons violation bail cost? If you choose to work with Double "O" Bonding, you will be responsible for a percentage of the bail and we will cover the rest. Doing this allows yourself or your loved one to get back on their feet so they can properly prepare an argument.

Weapons Charge vs Weapons Violation

So, what difference is there between a weapons charge and a weapons violation? Technically speaking, there isn’t much difference, but contextually, they can refer to different things. They are about as different as seamless gutters and leaf guard gutters. If it is your first arrest, it will likely be referred to as a weapons charge. Depending on how serious the crime is, you could be charged with a felony or a misdemeanor charge. That in mind, if this is your second or a repeated offense, you may be considered to be in violation of several things. For starters, you are committing a weapons violation as well as committing probation violation. There is a such thing as a weapons violation probation period that should be regarded seriously. Violating probation of any kind can result in immediate jail time. For help with bail or understanding your situation better, contact Double "O" Bonding.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the penalty for illegal gun possession?
  • The penalty depends on a few things. If it is your first offense, such as possession without a license, you could face jail time and/or a financial fine. However, if you are a convicted felon with a weapon, it could result in automatic jail time. 
• What does prohibited weapon mean?
  • This is in reference to items that are considered illegal to possess under federal law. They cannot be owned, used, or operated in the state and you will be punished accordingly if caught with one. Prohibited weapons include brass knuckles, throwing stars, and more. 
• Is having a gun a felony?
  • If your gun has been acquired legally and you are legally allowed to carry one, then no, it is not a felony to have one. It’s important to note that convicted felons are not allowed to possess or be in possession of weapons, so in that case, it would be a felony. 
• What is a weapon violation?
  • The textbook definition says a weapons offense is a violation of statutes or regulations that control deadly weapons. In a nutshell, it is the use or possession of a deadly weapon in a way that violates the safety of others. 

Connect With Double "O" Bonding Today for Help

If you need help with bail or assistance with a weapons violation in Jefferson, GA, look no further than Double "O" Bonding. We are here to help you when you or a loved one needs it most. Call us at 706-353-6467 to get started today. 

Is domestic violence a crime?

Domestic violence and arrest are a serious matter, and in domestic violence laws and policies, they vary from state to state. Whether a case of domestic violence charges is criminal or civil will depend on several factors, and the laws are in place to assure whether a domestic violence case dismissed without prejudice takes place.

Domestic violence laws are written by each state’s penal code by the legislature. Domestic violence definition does not have a universal description. For the state of Georgia, domestic violence charges denote violent acts between one family member and another. There is different domestic violence: 

• Physical: One person batters, bites, hits, punches, shoves, slaps or any type of violent actions inflicted on another person.
• Sexual: One person attempts or coerces another into sexual behavior or sexual without the second person consent.
• Emotional: One person deflates or invalidates another person’s sense of self-esteem and/or self-worth. Economic: When a person attempts to make another financially reliant on them.

Domestic violence can be referred to as spousal abuse and often the abuser has a history of repetitive abuse behavior.

How much is bail for domestic?

A brief summary of bail, bonds, and jail time in the State of Georgia are defined as such:

• In the State of Georgia, domestic violence charges that result in a battery conviction is a misdemeanor, punishable by 12 months jail time, a $1,000 fine, or combination of both for first-time offense Repeat convictions for family violence battery is a felony and punishable by a maximum of five years in prison.

• A simple assault is a misdemeanor and punished accordingly. However, a simple assault against a family member, public school employees, any person of 65 years or older, an expectant woman, or violent act committed in a public transportation vehicle or station are misdemeanors of an aggravated nature. This is punishable by 12 months of jail time plus a $1,000 fine. If deemed an aggravated misdemeanor, the fine can be as high as $5,000. In either case, jail time cannot be more than 12 months.

• Any person incarcerated for an aggravated misdemeanor will earn no more than may receive no more than four days of credit each month for good behavior. Any person incarcerated for ordinary misdemeanors can be eligible for two days’ credit for each day served. Incarcerated people that work assigned detail can be credited four days credit daily for each day served.  

Can you drop charges in a domestic violence case?

The answer is no. The only person who can drop domestic violence charges is the person who filed the charges. In the State of Georgia, the prosecutor’s office files domestic violence charges. Therefore, the victim cannot drop the charges, only the prosecutor’s office can.

Do domestic violence cases get dismissed?

If a person is accused and charged with family violence, they need to seek the services of the defense attorney promptly. Regarding family violence, charges cannot be simply dropped. Any attempt by a victim to drop domestic violence charges often bolsters prosecutors to push for harsher punishments, possibly adding other charges. 

How long do you get in jail for domestic violence?

We discussed these charges earlier, but to review in shorter explanation:

What the legal system of Georgia considers being a simple assault is prosecuted as a misdemeanor. When that assault happens in a domestic relationship, domestic violence charges become an aggravated misdemeanor. The fine can be as much as $5,000 and a maximum time behind bars of 12 months. An attorney that specializes in the domestic assault will be better able to provide details of this nature. 

The State of Georgia has created provisions for prosecuting family domestic violence charges, with one being getting a judge’s protective order against alleged abusers who are a current, former family member, or from former domestic relation. This includes co-parents of child/children, stepparent, foster parents, or anyone living in the same home now or in the past.

Significantly, it is a mandatory responsibility of law enforcement officials by the Georgia Legislature to investigate any claim of family violence as reported to them that indicates any possible violation of the law.

The deciding factor between basic assault charges and (domestic violence charges are based on the past and present identities and relationships of the people involved. When there is a repeat of the criminal conduct and a current or former relationship of domestic nature is in place, the state of Georgia ramps up punishment and orders a quick arrest of the supposed perpetrator as a way of diffusing any possible escalation that could result in death.

Being convicted of domestic violence charges can lead to complications and difficulties in every aspect of the accused and the victim’s personal and professional life. For the accused, it can lead to custody determinations if children are involved. The details and outcome of domestic violence charges can be better explained by an attorney that specializes in these cases. If you or a loved one need domestic violence bail bonds, contact Double "O" Bonding today at 706-353-6467.

What are bond services?

In most cases, when someone has been arrested and jailed, the court will set a bail amount for their release. The amounts will vary depending on the offense. Bond services help people get out of jail by paying a percentage of the bail, known as a bond, and ensuring the court the person will return for all set court dates. 

The defendant and the bond service are responsible for ensuring the court dates are met. Normally, a family member or friend of the person in jail will have to go to the bond service,and pay a fee for the bond service to pay for the bond. 

If you or a family member has been jailed, and you need bond services in Jefferson, GA, count on the professionals at Double "O" Bonding to get you help quickly. We help you through the whole process. All you need to do is call 706-353-6467. 

What is the purpose of a bond?

A bond is used to get a person out of jail after they’ve been arrested for a criminal offense. It is a percentage of the bail amount that was set by the court for the defendant’s release. This amount is usually about 10%, although some states have capped this amount at lower percentage rates. A bond service charges the defendant or family members this fee to pay the bond amount for the release of their loved one. When the bond is paid, it is also a promise to the court that the defendant will show up for all scheduled court dates. If the defendant fails to show up, the court usually issues a warrant for the defendant’s arrest.  

What does surety bond mean?

Posting bail can be done in one of three ways, either by paying the full amount in cash, or by property bond, in which the court places a lien on a piece of property as a form of payment, or a surety bond, which is the most common option. Surety bonds are the type of bonds provided by bond services and normally pay about 10% of the bail amount to get the defendant released on the promise the defendant returns for all court dates. Surety bonds for bail involve three parties, in this case the bond service, the court, and the defendant. The defendant or family members who enlisted the bond services are responsible for paying the bond services the fee. Some services allow you to make installment payments, if you are unable to pay the amount in full. The bond services bond application covers the surety bond.

How does bond insurance work? 

Bond services sign written agreements with courts to pay the full amount of bail if the defendant fails to make a court appearance. Because bail amounts are usually fairly high, bond agents usually need some form of insurance to ensure the bail is paid. Bond insurance helps bond services pay the full amount of a bond when the defendant fails to appear in court. With this insurance, an insurance company will guarantee scheduled payments on interest and principal on a bond in case of defaulted payment.

Here is how they work:

• The insurance company is paid a premium by the person issuing the bond, either in a lump sum or in installments.
• If there is a default on the payment of the bond, the insurance company pays the claim.
• This protects the bond services business and personal assets.

What are bond indenture services

The bond indenture is basically a formal agreement between the bond issuer and the bond purchaser. The agreement will contain the interest rate, the dates the interest will be paid, the maturity dates, along with any other terms and conditions agreed upon. In many cases, bond services will require collateral, which could range from mortgages to car titles to any form of valuable property such as jewelry.

How much does a $100,000 bond cost?

If your bail is $100,000, typically the fee for bond services is 10% of the bail, so you would pay the bond agent $10,000 to be released from jail. Defendants or their family members usually have to put up collateral to pay this fee. If you pay the full cash amount on the bail instead of using a bail bondsman, you will receive the bail amount in full after the trial. On the other hand, if bond services are used and $10,000 was paid on a $100,000 bail, the bond services get to keep the $10,000.

Bond services near me

When you or someone you love has been arrested and jailed, and you are looking for bond services in Jefferson, GA, you can depend on Double "O" Bonding for the most reliable service around. We will guide you through the whole process to ensure timely release from jail. For our bond services contact us by phone at 706-353-6467.

Probation Violation Bail

For those who are on probation, one of the most frequently asked questions is, “Can you go to jail for a probation violation?” and the answer is yes. If you or a loved one have violated your probation, then your probation officer can send an affidavit to the judge. The judge will read over the affidavit and determine if your probation is violated. If they agree with the affidavit, they will sign a warrant for your arrest. After the warrant has been issued, police officers will either arrest you at your home or you have the chance to turn yourself in for violating your probation. When it comes to posting bail for a probation violation, it will depend on if you have regular probation or deferred adjudication probation. When it comes to regular probation, it is at the judge’s discretion whether they set bail. If you have deferred adjudication probation then the judge has to set bail, but they can set it very high so that its too expensive to afford. In those situations, you will need the help of a bail bond agent.

How Long Do You Have to Go to Jail for Probation Violation?

The amount of time you spend in jail in regards to a probation violation is determined by how your probation was violated. If you fail to follow a rule of your probation (a technical violation) then jail time can be two years of your probation term. Not only are there rules you need to follow for probation, but there are also special conditions. If a special condition is violated, then you can serve the rest of your probation in jail. Not only can violating rules and special conditions of your probation land you in jail, but so can new offenses. If you commit a misdemeanor while you are on probation, you will have two years revoked and you will spend those two years in jail. In regards to a felony, you will have to serve the rest of your probation in jail.

What Constitutes Probation Violation

In the state of Georgia, it is important to be aware of what is considered a violation of your probation. There are three categories when it comes to violating probation in Georgia–these three are technical condition violation, which is when you violate the technical conditions of your probation, special condition violation, which is when you violate the special conditions of your probation, and substantive violation, which is when you commit a new crime while on probation. Some examples of probation violations are

• Missing Court Appearances: Part of probation involves going to court on assigned dates; if any court dates are missed then that’s a probation violation.
• Missing Appointments: You have to meet with your probation officer regularly, so if you fail to show up to a meeting then you have violated your probation.
• Not Paying Fines: Sometimes you are required to pay fines when you are on probation, so that is also a violation if you decide not to pay these fines.
• Not Having a Job: Failure to get a job or hold a job is going to be a violation of probation.
• Visiting Prohibited Places and People: If you associate with people or go to places that go against your probation, then it’s considered a violation.

A lot of people ask is probation violation a misdemeanor, and the answer is no. Probation is a type of contract you have with the court that says you won’t commit any new crimes or violate your probation. If you commit a misdemeanor while on probation, two years of your probation will be revoked and you serve two years in jail.

Probation Violation Vs Parole Violation

Many people believe that probation and parole violations are the same thing, but they are completely different types of alternatives to jail or prison. Probation is when the judge doesn’t send you to jail or prison but gives you the opportunity to rehabilitate yourself by following rules and conditions. Parole is when someone gets out of prison and have to follow certain rules and conditions.

What Happens When You Violate Probation for the Second Time?

If you have violated your probation for the second time, there are a couple of things that can happen. The judge or court can add more time to your probation, they can send you to jail or prison immediately, or they can add more time to your probation. All of those things can prove to be bad, so it’s important to follow all rules and special conditions of your probation.

Can a Probation Violation Be Dismissed?

Do Probation Violation Warrants Expire?

When it comes to probation violations being dismissed or having warrants expire for probation violations, it is not going to happen. When you have a warrant for your arrest due to a probation violation, the judge and police are not going to drop it. The same goes for having a probation violation dismissed. If they get rid probation, that just means you either have to go to jail or prison. If you need bail for a probation violation in Jefferson, GA, call Double "O" Bonding today! Our bail bond services will be able to get you out of jail fast so you can prepare for your upcoming court date. Just call our office at 706-353-6467 to speak with a bail bondsman.