Bail Bond Questions & Answers

How long has Pickens Bail Bonds been in business?

Pickens Bail Bonds has been family-owned and operated since 1995, helping thousands of clients.

What areas does Pickens serve?

Pickens Bail Bonds serves Waco and McLennan County communities including Bellmead, Beverly Hills, China Spring, Hewitt, Lacy-Lakeview, Lorena, McGregor, Robinson, West, and Woodway, as well as Gatesville.

What are Pickens’ office hours?

Pickens is available 24x7, with office hours Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 5:30 and weekends from 9:30 to 1:30.

How do I contact Pickens Bail Bonds?

Call (254) 755-7589 locally or 877-742-BAIL (2245) toll-free.

What makes Pickens different?

Pickens combines 25+ years of experience, competitive pricing, no-interest financing, 24x7 service, and custom software for reminders, check-ins, and payments.

Does Pickens have a mobile app?

Yes. Pickens' custom software and mobile app provide court notifications, check-ins, and payments.

Is Pickens non-judgmental?

Yes. Pickens prides itself on being non-judgmental and treating every client with care and respect.

Can I verify a bail bond company in McLennan County?

You can contact the McLennan County Bail Bond Coordinator's office at (254) 757-5000.

Where can I learn more about bail?

The Pickens blog covers topics such as court bail bonds, missing court, and choosing a bail bondsman.

Is Pickens highly rated?

Pickens is one of the best-reviewed bail bond companies in Waco, and its customer reviews speak for themselves.

Does Pickens provide assault bail bonds?

Yes. Pickens Bail Bonds provides assault bail bonds.

What is family violence in Texas?

Family violence charges involve assault against a family member, household member, or dating partner.

Can a person be held longer after a family violence arrest?

Texas law allows magistrates to hold a person arrested for family violence for a period before release in certain circumstances.

What is a magistrate’s order for emergency protection?

An emergency protective order may be issued at magistration in family violence cases and can require the defendant to stay away from the alleged victim and their home.

Can I go home after a domestic violence arrest?

A protective order or bond condition may prohibit returning home. Violating it can lead to new charges.

Can the alleged victim drop the charges?

In Texas, the state prosecutes the case, so the alleged victim cannot simply drop charges.

What is aggravated assault?

Aggravated assault involves serious bodily injury or the use of a deadly weapon and is a felony.

Can assault bonds have no-contact conditions?

Yes. Courts often include no-contact conditions in assault and domestic violence bonds.

Should I contact the alleged victim while on bond?

Never contact the alleged victim if a no-contact order or condition is in place.

Does Pickens handle domestic violence bonds?

Yes. Pickens Bail Bonds provides domestic violence bail bonds.

Does Pickens offer payment plans?

Yes. Pickens Bail Bonds offers flexible payment options, including no-interest financing.

What payment methods does Pickens accept?

Pickens accepts cash, check or money order, Visa, Mastercard, and Discover.

Does Pickens accept collateral?

No. Like most bail bond companies, Pickens Bail Bonds does not accept collateral.

Why is the bail bond fee not refunded?

The fee pays for the bond company's guarantee to the court and the service of securing release, so it is earned once the bond is posted.

Can I get a quote over the phone?

Yes. Call (254) 755-7589 and speak with a bail agent for an exact quote.

Is financing available for large bonds?

Financing options depend on the situation. Call Pickens to discuss payment arrangements for your bond.

Can I make bond payments online?

Yes. Pickens' software and mobile app allow customers to make payments and view account information.

Are there other fees besides the premium?

Some bonds may involve additional fees set by law or the county. Ask your agent to explain all costs before signing.

What happens if I miss a bond payment?

Contact Pickens right away. Missed payments can create problems for the co-signer and the bond, and early communication helps resolve issues.

Is the lowest price always the best choice?

Price matters, but service, availability, licensing, and communication matter too. Pickens combines competitive pricing with 24/7 service.

What is a surety bail bond?

A surety bail bond is posted by a licensed bail bond company that guarantees the full bail amount to the court in exchange for a fee.

What is a cash bail bond?

A cash bail bond means paying the full bail amount directly to the court. It may be refunded, minus fees, after the case if all conditions are met.

Which is better, cash or surety bond?

A surety bond requires only the fee, freeing up money, while cash bail ties up the full amount until the case ends.

What is a court bail bond?

Court bail bonds are bonds posted to secure release and appearance in court. Pickens explains how court bail bonds work and what to expect.

What is a criminal charge bail bond?

A criminal charge bail bond secures release for a person charged with a criminal offense while the case is pending.

What is a fast or immediate bail bond?

Fast bail bond service means working quickly to secure release as soon as bail is set. Pickens offers fast, 24x7 service.

Does Pickens offer surety bonds?

Yes. Pickens Bail Bonds writes surety bail bonds.

Can I switch bond companies after release?

Switching bond companies generally requires surrendering the existing bond and posting a new one, which is uncommon.

What is a bond surrender?

A bond surrender happens when the bond company returns the defendant to custody and asks to be released from the bond.

What is an attorney bond?

In Texas, licensed attorneys can post bonds for their clients in some cases.

What does an indemnitor sign?

The indemnitor typically signs an application, an indemnity agreement, and a receipt when the bond is written.

Can I stop being a co-signer?

If you no longer want responsibility, contact the bond company immediately. In some cases, the bond can be surrendered, which may return the defendant to custody.

What happens to the co-signer if the defendant runs?

The co-signer may be responsible for the full bond amount and any recovery costs, and should work with the bond company to help locate the defendant.

Who can be a co-signer?

A co-signer is typically an adult with steady income and ties to the community who is willing to take financial responsibility for the bond.

Can the defendant be their own co-signer?

In some cases, defendants can sign for their own bonds depending on the situation and approval. Ask Pickens about your case.

Should I co-sign for someone I don’t trust?

Only co-sign if you believe the defendant will attend court and follow conditions, since you take on financial responsibility.

Can multiple people co-sign?

Some bonds allow more than one indemnitor to share responsibility. Ask your agent.

Does co-signing affect my credit?

Co-signing itself does not usually appear on credit reports, but unpaid balances sent to collections could.

When does co-signer responsibility end?

Responsibility ends when all payments are made and the defendant has attended their final court date.

What should a co-signer do if the defendant misses court?

Contact Pickens immediately and help get the defendant back to court as quickly as possible.

How will I know when my court date is?

Pickens' system sends automatic court reminders by email, text message, or both.

How do check-ins work with Pickens?

Defendants can check in 24x7 through the app, text message, website, or automated phone system.

What is a bond forfeiture?

A bond forfeiture happens when a defendant fails to appear, and the court moves to collect the bond amount. Quick action can often resolve it.

What is a judgment nisi in Texas?

A judgment nisi is a conditional judgment entered when a defendant fails to appear, starting the bond forfeiture process unless the matter is resolved.

Can a missed court date be fixed?

Often, yes. If the missed date was a mistake, the bond company or an attorney can usually arrange for the defendant to return to court.

Where do I go for court in McLennan County?

Court location depends on the case. Check your paperwork or ask Pickens, and plan to arrive early.

Can I reschedule a court date?

Only the court can reset a date, usually through the defendant's attorney. Never assume a date is moved without confirmation.

What happens if a defendant is arrested again while on bond?

A new arrest can lead to bond revocation and additional bond requirements. Contact Pickens right away.

Do I need to update my address with the bond company?

Yes. Keep your address, phone number, and employer information current so you receive notices.

Can attorneys access bond information?

Yes. Pickens offers an attorney login through its bond software.

Does Pickens provide drug charge bail bonds?

Yes. Pickens Bail Bonds provides bail bonds for drug charges.

How are drug charges classified in Texas?

Texas classifies drugs into penalty groups, and charges depend on the substance, amount, and intent.

Are drug possession bonds high?

Bond amounts vary widely depending on the substance, amount, and criminal history.

What conditions come with drug charge bonds?

Drug charge bonds may include drug testing, treatment, or supervision requirements.

Is marijuana possession a crime in Texas?

Yes. Possession of marijuana remains illegal in Texas, with small amounts typically charged as misdemeanors.

What is possession with intent to deliver?

Possession with intent to deliver is a more serious charge based on evidence that drugs were meant for distribution.

Can a drug charge be reduced?

An attorney may negotiate reduced charges or diversion programs depending on the case.

What is a drug court?

Drug court is a program that offers treatment and supervision as an alternative to traditional prosecution for eligible defendants.

Can someone on a drug bond travel?

Travel may be restricted by bond conditions. Check with your attorney and the bond company.

What should I do after a drug arrest?

Stay quiet about the case, follow bond conditions, attend court, and contact an attorney.

What is the difference between DWI and DUI in Texas?

In Texas, DWI applies to adults driving while intoxicated. DUI generally applies to drivers under 21 with any detectable amount of alcohol and is a Class C misdemeanor.

Is a first DWI a misdemeanor in Texas?

A first DWI is generally a Class B misdemeanor, and it can be elevated based on factors such as blood alcohol level or an open container.

What bond conditions come with DWI?

DWI bond conditions can include an ignition interlock device, alcohol monitoring, or restrictions set by the court.

What is an ignition interlock device?

An ignition interlock is a breath-testing device installed in a vehicle that prevents it from starting if alcohol is detected.

Will I lose my license after a DWI arrest?

A DWI arrest can trigger an administrative license suspension in Texas. You typically have a limited time to request a hearing.

Can Pickens bond out DWI arrests?

Yes. Pickens Bail Bonds provides DWI and DUI bail bonds.

How long after a DWI arrest can someone be released?

Release depends on booking, bail setting, and whether the person is sober enough to be released safely.

Is a DWI with a child passenger more serious?

Yes. DWI with a child passenger under 15 is a state jail felony in Texas.

What should I do after a DWI arrest?

Follow bond conditions, attend court, request any license hearing in time, and contact a DWI attorney.

Can DUI minors be bailed out?

Yes. Minors arrested for alcohol offenses may be released under local procedures. Call Pickens for help.

What is a felony in Texas?

A felony is a serious offense punishable by confinement in state jail or prison. Texas felonies range from state jail felonies to capital felonies.

Are felony bonds higher?

Felony bail amounts are typically higher, and courts may add conditions.

Can Pickens write felony bonds?

Yes. Pickens Bail Bonds provides felony bail bonds.

What conditions come with felony bonds?

Felony bond conditions may include travel restrictions, reporting, drug testing, no-contact orders, or electronic monitoring.

How long does a felony case take?

Felony cases often take months or longer, and the bond remains in place until the case is resolved.

What is a grand jury indictment?

In Texas felony cases, a grand jury decides whether there is enough evidence to formally charge the defendant with an indictment.

Can bail be denied for a felony?

In certain limited circumstances, Texas courts can deny bail, such as some capital offenses or when specific conditions are met.

Why do felony bonds require more information?

Larger bonds carry more risk, so the bond company may ask more questions about the defendant and co-signers.

Can a felony bond be reduced?

An attorney can request a bond reduction hearing.

Should felony defendants hire an attorney quickly?

Yes. An attorney can help with bond conditions, reductions, and the case itself.

How long does it take to get out of McLennan County Jail after a bond is posted?

After a bond is posted, release timing depends on jail processing, staffing, and any holds, and can range from a short wait to several hours.

How close is Pickens Bail Bonds to the jail?

Pickens Bail Bonds's office is located just 5 minutes from the McLennan County Jail.

Can Pickens post bail at night or on holidays?

Yes. Pickens Bail Bonds can post bail bonds any time, day or night, including holidays.

What information do I need to bail someone out?

Have the defendant's full name, date of birth, the jail where they are held, booking number if available, charges, and bail amount if known.

Can I bail someone out if I live out of town?

Yes. Much of the bail process can be handled by phone and electronically, so family members outside Waco can often help.

What if the person has a hold from another county?

A hold from another county or agency may prevent release even after bond is posted. The other matter usually must be addressed separately.

Can I find out if someone is in jail?

You can check the county jail's inmate information or call the jail directly. Pickens Bail Bonds can also help you locate a loved one.

Do I need to go to the jail to post bond?

Not necessarily. Pickens handles posting the bond at the jail once paperwork and payment are complete.

What should I tell the defendant after release?

Remind them to follow all bond conditions, keep their contact information current, check in as required, and attend every court date.

Why should I call right away after an arrest?

Calling early allows Pickens to gather information while the person is being booked, which can save time once bail is set.

What is the difference between bail and a bail bond?

Bail is the amount of money a court sets to allow a defendant to be released while their case is pending. A bail bond is a promise, backed by a licensed bail bond company, to pay that amount if the defendant does not appear in court. The bond lets families secure release without paying the full bail amount.

Who sets the bail amount in Texas?

A magistrate or judge sets bail in Texas based on factors such as the charge, criminal history, risk of flight, and safety of the community.

How soon after arrest is bail set in Texas?

Texas law generally requires an arrested person to be brought before a magistrate within 48 hours, where bail is typically set.

Can bail be lowered?

A defense attorney can ask the court to reduce bail at a bond hearing. The judge decides based on the circumstances of the case.

What is a personal recognizance bond?

A personal recognizance, or PR, bond allows a defendant to be released on their written promise to appear in court without posting money. Judges grant PR bonds at their discretion.

Is bail money refundable?

The premium paid to a bail bond company is a fee for its service and is not refunded. Cash bail paid directly to the court may be returned, minus fees, after the case ends if all court appearances are made.

How long does a bail bond last?

A bail bond generally remains in effect until the defendant's case is resolved, as long as the defendant follows the bond conditions and attends court.

What are bond conditions?

Bond conditions are rules the defendant must follow while released, such as attending court, avoiding new arrests, and in some cases avoiding contact with certain people, wearing monitoring devices, or submitting to testing.

Can a bail bond be revoked?

Yes. A bond can be revoked if the defendant violates conditions, misses court, or is arrested again.

Who regulates bail bond companies in Texas?

In many Texas counties, including McLennan County, bail bond companies are licensed and overseen by the county bail bond board under state law.

What is a misdemeanor in Texas?

A misdemeanor is a less serious offense than a felony. Texas has Class A, Class B, and Class C misdemeanors, with Class A being the most serious.

What are examples of misdemeanors?

Examples include many first-offense DWIs, minor theft, simple assault, possession of small amounts of marijuana, and criminal trespass.

Are misdemeanor bonds cheaper?

Misdemeanor bail amounts are usually lower than felony bail, which typically lowers the bond fee.

Can a Class C misdemeanor require bail?

Class C misdemeanors are fine-only offenses, and many are handled with citations, but arrests can still occur.

How fast can a misdemeanor bond be posted?

Misdemeanor bonds are often processed quickly once bail is set and paperwork is complete.

Do misdemeanor bonds have conditions?

Yes. Conditions may include attending court and, depending on the charge, other requirements set by the court.

Does Pickens write misdemeanor bonds?

Yes. Pickens Bail Bonds provides misdemeanor bail bonds in Waco and McLennan County.

Can a misdemeanor affect my job?

A misdemeanor can affect employment, especially if convicted. Speak with an attorney about your options.

Can misdemeanors be dismissed?

Some misdemeanors can be dismissed or resolved through deferred adjudication or pretrial programs. An attorney can advise you.

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor?

Having an attorney is often helpful, even for misdemeanors, to protect your record and rights.

Does Pickens provide theft bail bonds?

Yes. Pickens Bail Bonds provides theft and property crime bail bonds.

How is theft graded in Texas?

Theft is graded based on the value of the property, ranging from Class C misdemeanors to felonies.

What is burglary in Texas?

Burglary involves entering a building or habitation without consent with intent to commit a crime.

Can shoplifting lead to jail?

Yes. Shoplifting is theft and can lead to arrest, especially with higher value or prior offenses.

Does Pickens provide weapons charge bail bonds?

Yes. Pickens Bail Bonds provides weapons charge bail bonds.

What is unlawful carrying of a weapon?

Unlawful carrying of a weapon involves carrying a firearm or weapon in a manner or place prohibited by Texas law.

Can felons possess firearms in Texas?

Texas law generally prohibits felons from possessing firearms, with limited exceptions.

Can bond conditions restrict firearms?

Yes. Courts may prohibit firearm possession as a bond condition.

What is criminal mischief?

Criminal mischief is intentionally damaging or destroying someone else's property.

Should I hire an attorney for a theft or weapons charge?

Yes. These charges can carry serious consequences, and an attorney can protect your rights.

What should I do if I have a warrant in McLennan County?

Contact an attorney and a bail bond company to plan how to address the warrant. Handling it voluntarily is usually better than waiting to be arrested.

Can a bail bondsman help with a warrant?

Yes. Pickens Bail Bonds provides warrant assistance and can explain options for posting a bond.

What is a walk-through bond?

A walk-through bond is arranged in advance so a person with a warrant can turn themselves in, be booked, and released more quickly.

How do I check for warrants in Texas?

You can check with the county sheriff's office, local police, or court clerk. Some counties offer online search tools.

What is a bench warrant?

A bench warrant is issued by a judge, often for missing court or violating court orders.

Will a warrant go away on its own?

No. Warrants generally stay active until resolved, and they can lead to arrest during a traffic stop or routine encounter.

Can I be arrested at work for a warrant?

Yes. Officers can make arrests wherever a person is found. Resolving warrants proactively avoids surprises.

What is a capias warrant?

A capias is a type of warrant ordering the arrest of a defendant, often issued after an indictment or failure to appear.

Should I talk to an attorney before turning myself in?

Yes. An attorney can advise you on the best way to handle a warrant and what to expect.

Can Pickens help with warrants in nearby counties?

Call Pickens to discuss warrants in McLennan and surrounding counties.