The repercussions of coronavirus on society as a whole have been disastrous, to say the least, however, there might just be a saving grace amongst the chaos. A massive drop in crime has flowered, partly down to the fact that lockdown orders have encouraged a lot of people to spend more time at home. Police officers state that they are receiving far fewer calls than they were at the same time last year, as well as a reduction in physical confrontations too. Even the crime-riddled city streets of New York reported a steady 25% decrease in crime, with just 1 murder case compared to 8 in the previous week. 

Unfortunately, though street related incidents have reduced in number, the stay-at-home rules are likely to have encouraged an increase in domestic and child abuse cases. Longer terms of confinement can lead to aggression, and being trapped inside your home with an abuser can give ample opportunity for distressing events to take place. 

Heading to jail or prison is not an enjoyable experience at any time, but the situation during a global health pandemic can make the environment even less bearable. Being in a small space with several others who have minimal access to hygiene products and PPE can put you at a much greater risk of catching the virus. In such uncertain times, Huggins Bail Bonds is here to help – if you or your loved one finds themselves in hot water, let us assist you in getting out safely, as fast as possible.

Bail Algorithms

In most cases, bail is granted by a judge who makes their decision based on a number of factors. One is the likelihood the defendant will appear at court, another is the risk of them reoffending before their trial. To make these decisions a judge will usually review the defendants’ criminal record and take other factors into account such as any review reports by bail investigators, and the defendants’ reputation. A bail algorithm is a way to simplify the process and make it more transparent.

Advantages of Bail Algorithms

Bail algorithms assist judges by providing them with a statistical report based on a variety of factors that would influence their eligibility. The algorithm generates a specific score and presents the judge with a recommendation. The score is based on factors such as their criminal record, their age, and any history of previously failing to appear at a court proceeding. It will also assess the risk of reoffending. This helps the judge make an accurate and calculated decision. Many observers have also welcomed the use of bail algorithms as a way to eliminate bias and improve consistency.

Potential Problems with Bail Algorithms

While bail algorithms may seem like a flawless solution on the face of it, they are not, many criticisms have been made of the system. For one thing, the bail algorithms don’t always take account of a defendants’ past, things like substance abuse, or mental health issues, that could have bearing on the crime. Furthermore, while the bail algorithm is meant to reduce discrimination it has been pointed out that minority groups are disproportionately affected meaning that this is predominantly used by the system.

People who are unfortunate enough to get arrested need to pay bail to get out of jail. 

Usually, they have two choices. Either they can pay their own way with savings. Or they use a bail bondsman to do it for them.

Typically, people only choose the latter if they cannot afford bail. But there are good reasons to use a bail bondsman, even if you have the money in the bank. 

Reason #1: It Doesn’t Tie Up Your Money

When you or somebody you know bails you out of jail, it ties up money. You can’t invest it or use it for day-to-day expenses, putting a strain on your finances. 

With a bail bondsman, however, you can continue using your money for your regular activities. This way, you avoid unnecessary hardship. 

Reason #2: It May Help You Get A Public Defender

When you pay your own bail, you signal to the court that you have money to defend yourself. But when you use a bail bondsman, you indicate that you do not have the means to hire a private lawyer. The court, therefore, may provide a public defender, which costs you nothing. Private attorneys charge hundreds of dollars an hour.

Reason #3: It Reduces The Risk Of Bail Forfeiture 

Finally, bail forfeiture is highly likely. Defendants may show up in the wrong courtroom or get there late, automatically forfeiting their bail money. Using a bail bondsman, like Huggins in Miami, helps to protect against this threat. It avoids having to hire expensive lawyers to get the bail money back. 

If you know of someone who has been arrested, you may want to know what their rights are. The bottom line is, that they will not legally be able to have their rights stripped. You do have the right to use a bail bondsman in order to free someone from jail but there are restrictions and limitations that you should be aware of, if you are in this situation. 

Inmates are always given First Amendment rights, which do not affect their status as an inmate. These rights will protect them, as an inmate, against inhumane treatment. This could include physical abuse. They also do have the right to not be subject to any type of discrimination, whether that be regarding race or religion.

They also possess the right not to be harassed whilst serving their time in jail. They have rights to medical care, should they take ill or be injured. They have rights to the appropriate mental health care also, which may or may not relate to the reason they are in jail. If they are assessed and need to be moved to a mental health facility, they have the right to a hearing if necessary.

They may also complain about the circumstances or conditions during their stay. 

There are additional rights also dependent on the inmate’s circumstances and health, such as a disability. They are allowed their wheelchair and access to programs within the prison. Knowing these rights are vital and knowing their allowances could help everyone in the situation.