Surety Bond

A surety bond is the most widely used type of bail bond in Texas. When a bail bondsman like Act Rapid Bail Bonds posts a surety bond, the company guarantees the full bail amount to the court on the defendant's behalf. The defendant or their indemnitor pays a non-refundable premium to the bail bond company for this service.

Surety bonds make the bail process accessible for defendants and families who need to secure release quickly. The bail bond company assumes the financial risk, and in exchange, the indemnitor agrees to ensure the defendant appears at all court dates and complies with bond conditions.

Personal Recognizance Bond

A personal recognizance (PR) bond allows a defendant to be released without posting any money. Instead, the defendant signs a written agreement promising to appear at all scheduled court dates. PR bonds are granted at the discretion of a judge and are typically reserved for non-violent, low-level offenses where the defendant poses minimal flight risk.

In Denton County, PR bonds are not automatically available. The defendant or their attorney must request one, and the judge considers factors such as the nature of the charge, criminal history, employment status, and community ties. If denied, the defendant must secure release through a surety bond.

Attorney Bond

In Texas, licensed attorneys can post bonds on behalf of their clients. An attorney bond functions similarly to a surety bond — the attorney guarantees the defendant's appearance in court. This type of bond is less common and is typically arranged when the defendant has already retained legal counsel.

Attorney bonds are not available in every situation, and not all attorneys offer this service. If you are unsure whether an attorney bond is an option, contacting a bail bond company is usually the most straightforward path to securing release.

Federal Bail Bonds

Federal charges are handled in the United States District Court system, not the state courts. The bail process for federal cases is different and often more complex. A federal magistrate determines whether the defendant is eligible for release and may impose stricter conditions, including higher bond amounts and more intensive supervision.

Federal bail bonds in the Denton County area are processed through the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. Act Rapid Bail Bonds has experience handling federal bail bonds and can guide you through the process if a federal charge is involved.

Which Type Is Right for Your Situation

For most arrests in Denton County, a surety bond through a licensed bail bondsman is the fastest and most practical way to secure release. If you are unsure which option is best for your situation, contact Act Rapid Bail Bonds at (940) 442-5353. Our agents can explain your options and help you make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common type of bail bond in Texas?
The surety bond is by far the most common type of bail bond used in Texas. A licensed bail bondsman posts the full bail amount on behalf of the defendant in exchange for a non-refundable premium, making release accessible to defendants and their families.
Can I get a PR bond in Denton County?
Personal recognizance bonds are available in Denton County but are not guaranteed. A judge must approve a PR bond, and they are typically reserved for low-level, non-violent offenses where the defendant has strong ties to the community and no significant criminal history.
How does a surety bond work in Texas?
A surety bond is obtained through a licensed bail bondsman, who posts the full bail amount with the court on the defendant’s behalf. The defendant or their indemnitor pays a non-refundable premium for this service. The bondsman assumes the financial risk and ensures the defendant appears at all court dates.