Bail Bonds in Wisconsin

Bond, otherwise known as bail, is a payment or promise of a payment to the court that allows someone to be released from prison after being arrested. There are two types of bonds in Wisconsin:

1. • Cash Bond – A cash bond is straightforward. It is a cash payment made to the court in order to be released from jail.
2. • Signature Bond – A signature bond allows someone to be released from prison without coming up with the cash amount set in bail. Instead, you must sign a contract promising to pay the cash amount if the conditions of bail are not met. Conditions usually include not committing other crimes, attending all court dates, and not using alcohol or drugs. If the conditions are not met, the state can sue for the cash amount of the bail. Additional charges like bail jumping may also be incurred.

 
Sometimes a judge can prescribe a combination of cash bond and signature bond or require more than one signature on a co-signature bond– usually a parent or guardian.

How is the bond amount determined?

The court will consider a number of factors in determining the bond amount including a previous criminal record, the severity of the charges, attendance at previous court dates, and your ability to post bond.

Will cash bonds be returned after trial?

If you are found not guilty or if your charges are dropped, the cash posted as bond will be returned. If not, the money will be used to cover court fees and fines or given to victims as part of a settlement. After that, any remaining funds will be returned.

Contact Tracey Wood and Associates for immediate assistance with your case and obtaining a bond.