A Virginia Criminal Appearance Bond, also known as a bail bond, is a legal document that allows an individual accused of a crime to be released from jail while awaiting their court appearance. It is a type of surety bond, which ensures that the defendant will comply with all the court requirements and appears for their scheduled court dates. The purpose of a Criminal Appearance Bond is to provide assurance to the court that the defendant will not flee or pose a threat to public safety if released. This bond acts as a guarantee that the accused will continue to cooperate with the legal proceedings and follow any conditions or restrictions set by the court. In Virginia, there are different types of Criminal Appearance Bonds available: 1. Cash Bond: In this type of bond, the defendant or their family or friends pay the full bail amount to the court. Once the case is closed, and the defendant has complied with all court obligations, the money is returned, minus any fines or fees. 2. Surety Bond: This is the most common type of bond used in Virginia. It involves a third-party surety bond company, known as a bail bondsman, who pays the full bail amount on behalf of the defendant. The defendant typically pays a non-refundable fee, usually a percentage of the total bail amount, to the bail bondsman. The bail bondsman assumes the responsibility of ensuring the defendant appears in court and may require collateral as security. 3. Personal Recognizance Bond: Also known as a PR bond, this type of bond allows the defendant to be released without any monetary payment. The court releases the accused based on their promise to appear for all court hearings. Personal recognizance bonds are typically granted to individuals with little to no prior criminal record and who are deemed to be low flight risks. 4. Property Bond: This type of bond involves using real estate property as collateral to secure the defendant's release. The value of the property must be sufficient to cover the full bail amount set by the court. If the defendant fails to appear, the court can foreclose on the property. The specific type of bond granted to a defendant in Virginia depends on various factors, including the nature of the crime, the defendant's criminal history, flight risk assessment, and the judge's discretion. It's essential to consult with an experienced attorney to understand the legalities, obligations, and options when it comes to Virginia Criminal Appearance Bonds.