Just like it has in most other communities in Michigan, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected bail bonds in Port Huron in numerous ways. Policies are fluctuating by the day to account for changes in case numbers and restrictions, so it’s important to find a bail bondsman in Port Huron who stays abreast of these changes.
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted bail bonds in Port Huron in terms of caseloads, how bail bonds are processed, and possibly even the number of bail requirements that are set.
Keeping Inmates Out
It’s no secret that courts and jails in Michigan have been overwhelmed since the pandemic began. Prisoners face an increased risk of contracting and spreading the coronavirus, so states have been making efforts to keep arrestees out of jails if possible. That means more cases are being handled by video or have been postponed, leading to a backlog of cases in many states.
Reconsidering Convictions
Some prosecutors in other states even reduced the number of low-level crimes that they prosecuted. Because inmates face a higher risk of exposure, that means they could pass it to attorneys, judges, and jurors. For that reason, many law enforcement officials and attorneys may be making efforts to keep individuals out of the courtroom.
Rules in Jurisdictions Regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic and Bail Bonds
The state of Michigan has continued safeguards to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, including requiring masks in most situations, promoting regular handwashing, and encouraging social distancing. While many of the other rules have been lifted recently, the state still has a “phrased approach” to a return to full capacity within Michigan courthouses.
However, different jurisdictions in Michigan can determine on their own when and how some of these changes will be made. That means choosing a bail bondsman who understands the specific rules in Port Huron will facilitate a smoother bail bond process for your loved one.
Reducing Bail Bonds
With all of these potential risks in mind, more arrestees may be released on their own recognizance or face lower bail amounts than they would have pre-pandemic. Doing so helps to keep arrestees out of jail, especially those who cannot afford to pay bail.
Increased Remote Hearings
Remote hearings, such as those for arraignments, have been used for many years. Today, courts are making efforts to handle more hearings via remote technology.
There’s no telling what will happen with the coronavirus case numbers in Michigan or what will happen with bail bonds in Port Huron in that regard. For that reason, we are making every effort to stay up to date on the changes in order to ensure that our clients get out of jail faster.
If you know someone who has been arrested and needs a bail bond in Port Huron, contact us to see what you need to do next.