Nebraska Criminal Appearance Bond: A Detailed Description and Types In the state of Nebraska, a Criminal Appearance Bond, also known as a bail bond, serves as a financial guarantee that the defendant will appear in court for their criminal proceedings. It is a legally binding agreement between the defendant, their surety (usually a bail bondsman), and the court. By posting a bail bond, the defendant can secure their temporary release from jail until their court hearing, allowing them to continue with their normal daily activities while awaiting trial. Criminal Appearance Bonds play a vital role in the legal system by ensuring that defendants do not flee or evade the legal process. If a defendant fails to appear in court as required, the court may issue a warrant for their arrest, and the bond will be forfeited. However, if the defendant appears as scheduled, the bond is usually exonerated, and any collateral or fees provided by the defendant or their surety will be returned. In the state of Nebraska, there are different types of Criminal Appearance Bonds: 1. Cash Bond: This type of bond requires the defendant or their family to pay the full amount of the bond in cash directly to the court. Upon fulfilling all court obligations, the cash bond is returned in full. 2. Surety Bond: A surety bond involves a bail bondsman or a licensed bonding agency that posts the bond on behalf of the defendant. The bondsman charges a non-refundable fee, usually a percentage (typically 10%) of the total bond amount. The bondsman assumes responsibility for ensuring the defendant's appearance in court and may request collateral such as property or valuable assets. 3. Property Bond: Occasionally, defendants have the option to post a property bond. In this case, the defendant or their family utilizes their property's equity (typically real estate) as collateral. The property's value must exceed the bond amount, and a lien is placed on it. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the court may foreclose on the property to cover the bond. 4. Release on Recognizance (ROR): In certain circumstances, the court may grant a defendant an ROR, where no bond amount needs to be posted. With an ROR, the defendant is released based on their promise to appear in court. This option is generally reserved for low-risk individuals without a significant flight risk. When obtaining a Criminal Appearance Bond in Nebraska, it is important to consult with an experienced bail bondsman or legal professional who can guide you through the process and provide assistance in securing your release from custody. Understanding the various types of bonds available can help defendants and their families make informed decisions when it comes to securing their freedom while awaiting trial.