Individuals who have been charged with a crime and cannot afford to pay bail face several negative consequences if they must stay in jail before the case ends. Their employment and family life are disrupted, and they may experience physical or psychological harm. There are negative outcomes for society as well. A bail bond agency near Buckeye, AZ can help.
Financial Hardship
Pre-trial incarceration often results in financial hardship. Loss of income can cause the inability to pay bills and may lead to eviction. This may affect an entire family with children. The defendant is likely to lose his or her job if weeks pass before the case ends. A bail bond agency near Buckeye, AZ provides a service allowing defendants to be released with a bond rather than cash.
Psychological Problems
Being in jail while waiting for case resolution carries the risk of becoming depressed and even suicidal. Someone who was already dealing with mental health issues will likely experience worsening symptoms. A person with an anxiety disorder, for instance, may develop panic attacks.
Physical Injuries
The Bureau of Justice reports that about 7% of jail inmates suffer injuries related to fighting. Fistfights can cause broken bones, brain trauma, and other injuries. On average, prisons are somewhat safer than jails because they are designed for longer-term incarceration. Security measures typically are much stronger.
Societal Issues
County jails tend to be overcrowded, a situation connected with violent behavior. Taxpayers pay for the facilities, food, medical care, and all other necessities. When defendants who have not been convicted of a crime must stay behind bars, this may seem like a waste of tax dollars.
