Posting Bail
Whenever you are arrested and charged, a judge will decide how much bail you must pay for your release pending trial. Bail is a deposit that must be paid to ensure your appearance at the set trial date. Your bail is determined by the severity of your crime. If you are unable to pay your full bail, bondsmen can be hired to cover this cost. CIEE can advise you on the procedures of paying your own bail or, if necessary, help you contact a local bail bondsman.
For example, if the court sets your bail at $500 and you do not have that much money available, a bail bondsman will charge you about 10% (in this case $50). The bondsman will pay the remaining $450 towards your bail, and will keep your $50 as his fee.
Failure to appear at your assigned court date will result in the loss of the bail money, which has been posted by you or the bondsman. If you used a bail bondsman, you will owe him the full fee. Failure to appear in court may also increase the severity of charges against you, may go on your permanent record, and may negatively affect the process of applying for a visa to come to the U.S. in the future.
Please remember that breaking a U.S. law or being arrested may affect your employment as well as your CIEE Work & Travel USA program. Please follow our safety tips and abide by all U.S. and local laws while you are on the program. If you have questions or issues contact CIEE (1.888.268.6245) immediately.