If someone you care about has been arrested, getting them released from jail is likely a high priority for you. No one wants their loved one sitting in jail longer than they have to. The best thing to do if you find yourself facing this unfortunate situation is to stay calm, stay informed, and remember jail release in Travis County is a process, and with the right knowledge and support, it is manageable.

What Qualifies as Release from Jail in Travis County, Texas?

Various conditions can qualify an inmate for release from jail in Travis County. Bail and parole are the most common ways. Each has its own eligibility criteria and is guided by the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.

Bail in Travis County

This is a financial assurance given to the court that the defendant will appear for future court proceedings to answer to the criminal offense they have been charged with. Once bail is posted, the defendant is released from jail pending their trial. Bail is often decided by the judge at an arraignment hearing shortly after arrest, and its amount can vary depending on the severity of the charges, prior criminal history, and flight risk. Many crimes have a pre-set bail amount. 

Your options for paying bail in Travis County include:

1. Cash Bail: The defendant, a friend, or a family member can post the full bail amount in cash. The money will then be returned to them after the defendant has attended all the required court appearances.
2. Property Bond: A property bond is an alternative for those who cannot pay bail in cash and do not want to use a bail bond company. Instead of using cash, they use the value of their house as a promise to collateral for the release.
3. Surety Bond: If your loved one does not have the money to pay the whole bail amount, there are still options available: a friend or family member can work with a bail bondsman who will cover the defendant’s bail for a fee, typically a nonrefundable 10-15% of the bail amount. Your choice of bail bondsman can have a huge effect on how smoothly the process goes. Choose a bail bondsman who is licensed and has great deal of experience. On the Travis County Bail Bond Board’s webpage, you can find a list of bonding companies licensed and approved in Travis County. 
4. Personal Recognizance Bond: If approved by a judge, the arrested person can be released without cash bail or a surety bond. Instead, they pay a small administrative fee (usually between $20 and $150) and promise to appear in court. This option is typically for those without a criminal history and whose charges are not violent or severe. Only the Pretrial Services Office or a qualified attorney can petition the court to allow a defendant to be released on a personal bond. 
5. Cash Deposit Bond: Travis County is one of only two counties in Texas where this type of bond is offered. With a cash deposit bond, the defendant’s lawyer can put down a deposit, typically no more than 10 percent of the total bond amount, to secure the defendant’s release. You can think of a cash deposit bond as a personal bond secured by collateral. 

Parole in Travis County

Parole is not a release from jail per se, but rather an early release from prison. After serving a portion of their prison sentence, an inmate might be granted parole, which means they can complete their sentence in the community under certain conditions. Texas has a Parole Board that reviews cases and decides whether an inmate is ready for conditional release. Several factors influence the Parole Board’s decision, like the inmate’s behavior in prison, the nature of the offense for which they were incarcerated, and public opinion. If approved, the inmate will have to meet specific conditions to stay out of jail.

Jail Release in Travis County FAQs

• What Rules Will My Loved One Need to Follow to be Released?

Whether it is bail or parole, conditions apply. For bail, the person usually needs to promise to appear at all court dates. In parole cases, it can range from regularly reporting to a parole officer to maintaining employment and even undergoing drug tests.

• How Often Will the Parolee Need to Report?

The frequency of reporting to a parole officer can vary but is usually at least once a month. Not reporting can result in parole revocation, which would mean going back to jail. The rules are detailed in the parole agreement, and it is crucial to follow them to the letter.

• What If I am Arranging This from Out of State?

If you are arranging a loved one’s release from jail in Travis County from another state, you can usually make bail payments online or over the phone. For parole issues, most of the forms and guidance are available online, but your loved one will need local contacts for regular reporting and verification.

• What Happens When the Terms Are Violated?

Violating the conditions for release can lead to severe repercussions, such as reinstatement of the original bail amount, additional charges, or immediate return to jail. In parole cases, the Parole Board might issue a “blue warrant,” leading to the person’s re-arrest and a revocation hearing.

• What Should I Bring When Picking Up an Inmate?

Generally, a government-issued ID should suffice, but also bring any paperwork related to their release to avoid complications.

• Does My Loved One Need to Stay at a Halfway House?

It depends. Some parole conditions may require a transitional period at a halfway house. Make sure to read the parole agreement carefully.

• Are There Forms I Need to Fill Out?

For bail, you will usually need to complete bond paperwork. For parole, various forms might include a Parole Plan or a Parole Supervision form. Check with the parole officer for specific requirements.

Conclusions

Securing a loved one’s jail release in Travis County involves navigating a web of rules, paperwork, and decision-makers. Understanding these basics can give you a head start and make the process far less intimidating. Furthermore, whether it involves bail or parole, you should always consult a criminal defense attorney for legal advice regarding your specific situation.

While an attorney is not strictly necessary to secure your loved one’s release from jail in Travis County, having one by your side can expedite the process. An experienced attorney in Travis County will have spent years building relationships within the local legal system. These relationships can be particularly useful in getting your loved one released from jail.