Understanding The Cost of Bail in Memphis,TN.

After an arrest in Memphis, it’s common to wonder how soon you can get out on bail and what it will cost. However, not everyone who is arrested is granted bail.

Being granted bail is not guaranteed in Tennessee.

Whether or not you are found eligible for bail will be up to the judge presiding over your initial court appearance, also called an arraignment.

After reviewing the charges you’re facing and the details surrounding your arrest, the judge will take into account any prior criminal convictions on your record. The judge relies on this information, combined with a number of other factors, to decide whether or not to grant bail in your case. If you are found eligible for bail, the next question is: “How much will my bail cost?”

Your Bail Amount Should be Reasonable

The Bill of Rights protects you from unobtainable or unreasonably high bail amounts.
“Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.”

How Much Does Bail Typically Cost in Memphis?

When you or a loved one has been arrested, it’s common to wonder, “How much will I have to pay for bail?”

Unfortunately, there is no blanket answer to this question. As each criminal case is different, there is no set or standard bail amount in Tennessee. The judge presiding over your case will determine the cost of your bail to whatever amount they feel is appropriate to the nature of the offenses with which you’ve been charged.

While there are judges who may apply a set amount of bail according to a particular offense, this is not always the case and certainly should not be counted on. The judge you appear before in your initial court appearance may look at such schedules and then choose to either raise or lower the amount of your bail.

Once your bail amount has been set, you can post bail for your release from jail until your next court appearance, providing you meet the conditions of your bail.

Is Bail Higher for Felony Charges?

Again, there is no set rule for bail amounts in Tennessee-regardless of the alleged offense or the classification of the alleged crime. That said, there does seem to be a general rule that bail for felony charges in Tennessee typically costs more than bail for misdemeanor charges.

Sometimes, a judge will waive bail costs. Other times, a judge will not require you to pay a bail fee, and instead will ask that you sign a signature bond. With a signature bond, you are not required to put up any money or collateral.

Keep in mind, a judge may also decide to deny bail all together. The details of your case, your criminal record, and whether or not you have outstanding warrants for your arrest can all impact this ruling.

If you’ve been arrested in Memphis, it’s in your best interest to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as you are able.