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What Happens To Bail Money If Found Guilty?

What Happens To Bail Money If Found Guilty?

If a defendant is found guilty, the bail money posted will typically be applied to any fines, fees, or restitution that the defendant must pay as part of their sentence.

Once all fines and fees have been satisfied, any remaining bail money will be returned to the person who posted the bail, minus any administrative fees or charges. However, if the defendant must pay restitution or other financial obligations as part of their sentence, any remaining bail money may be applied to those obligations first.

If the defendant cannot pay the total amount of their fines or fees, they may be placed on a payment plan or required to perform community service instead of payment. In this case, any remaining bail money may be applied to the outstanding balance of fines or fees or returned to the person who posted the bail once all obligations have been satisfied.