3 Things To Do If Your Bail Is Higher Than You Can Afford

Being stuck in jail with a massive bail you can't afford is a seriously worrisome situation. Thankfully, most people who end up in this dire situation have options to help them get the money they need. Take a look at some of the ways you may be able to come up with fast cash to get yourself out of jail. 

Find out if property liens through the court are possible. 

In some jurisdictions, the court will actually allow you to use your own tangible property to pay your bail and get out of jail. For example, if you own a piece of real estate property or a vehicle, you may be able to get out of jail by allowing the court to become a lienholder on the property in exchange for a promise of payment. These kinds of arrangements are rare, so if your local court system will not make these arrangements with you, it is worth talking to a bail bonds service to see if they could do the same. 

Talk to a bail bonds service to see if they can help. 

In many situations, your best bet is to work with a bail bonds service for help. If your bail is so high that there is no feasible way to get the money, a bail bonds agency can make arrangements for you to be released right away. Of course, you will have to agree to payment terms and fees that are associated with the loan, and you will also have to return to court as required with your release. For most people, bail bonds are the most viable option. 

Consider having a family member pawn something of value. 

Pawning something of value is a good solution if you own something that could fetch some cash, and you can always go back and retrieve your items later when you get out of jail. Talk to a family member you trust about pawning something, such as a firearm, musical instrument, or piece of jewelry. They can take your item in for you and help you pay your bail. 

Arrange for a title loan for a vehicle you own. 

Title loans are an option for most people, even sometimes when people are in jail and need to get out. Title loans are short-term loans that use your vehicle as collateral. You will get a lump-sum payment in exchange for allowing the lender to become a lienholder on the property.