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Atlanta Criminal Defense Lawyers > Blog > Criminal Defense > How To Be Released On One’s Own Recognizance

How To Be Released On One’s Own Recognizance

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After an arrest in Atlanta, an individual in detention will typically be set up to see a magistrate judge within 72 hours of being put in custody. The ideal situation would be not to be arrested in the first place and to remain free. But if an arrest does happen, regardless of your innocence or guilt, there is still the potential that you could be released from jail, but under certain conditions. If the judge issues you a bond, you will be released from custody. However, you will be required to attend all mandatory court appearances thereafter until your cases is resolved. There are many different ways a bond can be issued with the most sought-after being that of one’s own recognizance.

To improve your chances for the most favorable conditions after an arrest, the Georgia criminal defense lawyers at Hawkins Spizman can help. The criminal justice system can be highly complicated and difficult to navigate alone. The criminal defense attorneys at Hawkins Spizman know the system and how to help aggrieved individuals secure the best possible results.

What Makes a Judge Release Someone on Their Own Recognizance?

The different types of ways a bond can be issued include:

  • Surety Bonds use a bonding company for bail and then there is a cost for this service
  • Property Bonds use the property as collateral
  • Cash Bonds
  • Signature Bonds will not need collateral but if a person does not come to court they will be responsible for the amount of the bond they signed.
  • Own Recognizance Bonds do not require collateral

Assessing how to pay for bail can be a stressful task, especially for those who have limited financial resources. Own Recognizance Bonds are favored in this, and in most situations. Your attorney will fight to secure the best bond outcome for you. Where possible your lawyer will try to get you out on your own recognizance. If this happens, then you must sign your name to a document indicating you will show up for your court date. Even with this type of bond, there also could be accompanying requirements that the judge attaches like seeing a pre-trial supervision officer regularly while you are awaiting court.

It is critical that you follow all requirements set forth by the judge because if you fail to do so, you are subject to the bond being revoked and you could be put back in jail. Additionally, there are penalties for not showing up for court.

To be considered for a recognizance bond, there are some factors that can help. First, the quality of your legal counsel will play a part which is why working with Hawkins Spizman is important so that you have the most proficient criminal defense lawyers in Atlanta representing you. Then, there is how the judge perceives you and the charges as the judge has discretion in these matters. If you are regarded as a more stand-up member of the community, have a good job, a close family, no criminal record, and no history of failing to appear in court, these can help when it comes to getting released on your own recognizance.

Speak to an Atlanta Criminal Defense Attorney Today 

After an arrest in Atlanta, working with a knowledgeable Georgia criminal defense attorney at Hawkins Spizman increases your chances of securing the most advantageous outcome for your case. To schedule a free consultation please call 770-685-6400.

Hawkins Spizman Trial Attorneys represent individuals in Georgia including Atlanta, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cobb County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs.

Source:

gand.uscourts.gov/directory-magistrate-judges-and-staff

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