Bond Court / Hearings

What is Bond Court/Hearing?

In Illinois, every person who is arrested for a felony has the right to have a bond hearing before a Judge in Bond Court.  (725 ILCS 5/110-1-18).  For misdemeanor cases, bond is usually posted at the police station and a bond hearing in court doesn’t take place.

At a Bond Hearing, the Court decides how much money you will have to post in order to be released from jail while your case is pending.  This is a very important phase of the criminal process because your lawyer will have the first opportunity to tell the Court positive things about you, your family, and your work history so that you can have the best chance of having a low bond or “no cash” bond.  A “no cash” bond is referred to as an “I” bond that doesn’t require the posting of any cash with the Clerk of the Court.  This is commonly known as a “signature bond.”

If the judge sets a “high bond” or a “no bond,” you may be forced to spend months in county jail until the case finishes. The Judge may also refuse to set a bond if he believes that you pose a danger to society or are a flight risk.

Using the Posted Bond for Attorneys’ Fees

Fortunately, in Illinois, you are allowed to use the posted bond to pay your attorney fees and still remain free while you fight your case. Unlike many attorneys, in most cases, we will accept the posted bond, or a portion of it, as payment for our attorney fees.  Every case is different so give us a call to discuss your case.

Why Hire John D. Ioakimidis as You Lawyer for Your Bond Court/Hearing?

Over the past 20 years, our lawyers we have helped thousands of clients with success at their bond hearings. Our lawyers understand how important it is to you, and your family to be set free from jail while fighting your case.  The State prosecutor at the bond hearing will usually present to the Judge your criminal history and will try to persuade the Judge to set no bond or a high bond.  The Prosecutor knows that they will have an easier time winning their case if you are locked up while the case is pending. You need an attorney that knows how to best present your case and convince to the Court to set a “low” or “no cash” signature bond.

If you have a bond hearing in Cook County, Lake County, DuPage County or Kane County, give us a call.  We can help.