The Law Office of William J. O'Neil

Phone Numbers:

(413) 733-6821 - Main Phone

Website:

Address:

7 Stockbridge St
Springfield, MA 01103

Description:

Free initial consultation regarding your legal needs.... William J. O'Neil has practiced law in the greater Springfield area. His main areas of practice are Criminal Defense, Social Security Disability and Bankruptcy. Mr. O'Neil is an experienced trial attorney having tried numerous civil and criminal cases to conclusion in the District and Superior Courts in numerous locations in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He has defended clients charged with drunk driving as well as those charged with murder where he has obtained acquittals. Mr. O'Neil represents clients filing for protection under the United States Bankruptcy Code in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases. The office also assists clients with claims for disability benefits pursuant to the Social Security Act. Mr. O'Neil and his staff are also experienced in providing legal assistance to those buying a home and dealing with the real estate closing process as well as advising clients on estate planning, will drafting, and probate matters.

What is a bail hearing?

After a defendant is arrested, a bail hearing is scheduled to determine if the defendant is a flight risk and to set the amount of his or her bail or deny the bail and bonds altogether if the defendant is deemed a flight risk.

How long after an arrest does it take to set bail?

States have laws that specify when a bail hearing must take place after an arrest. For most states, the hearing must be held 48 to 72 hours after the arrest – but weekends and holidays will not count towards this time.

What is a bail bond?

A bail bond is a contractual guarantee, issued by a licensed bail bond agent, between the agent the defendant and the court, that promises the court the full bail payment if the defendant does not show up for his or her scheduled court hearing.

How quickly can a bail bond be issued?

Once defendants have received a bail amount at their bail hearing, and contacted a bail bond service, the bail and bonds are usually accomplished within 24 hours of the bail hearing.

What is the cost of a bail bond?

States set the fee for a bail bond, and in most states, the fee is 10 percent of the total bail. This fee is paid to the bond agent for the bond service, and it is a non-refundable fee.

Are there any alternatives to a bail bond?

Yes. Defendants may pay the full price of the bail, opt for a property bond or try to gain a release through their own recognizance.

What if a defendant cannot afford a bail bond?

Defendants who cannot afford a bail bond can try for a release on their own recognizance, search for a bail bond agent who offers a payment plan, or remain in jail until their court hearing.

What happens if a defendant flees?

If a defendant flees the full amount of the bail is due, the defendant will be charged with costs associated with their recovery and the amount of the bail is forever forfeit even after the defendant is recovered.

What type of collateral can be used for a bail bond?

Almost anything of value can be used as collateral for a bail bond, including retirement or private savings, property, or personal items of value such as jewelry or antique collections that belong to the defendant or to family members or friends who accept responsibility for the collateral.

When does the bail bond end?

The process for bail and bonds ends when defendants appear for their court hearing. Regardless of the outcome of their hearing, as long as they show up, the bonds are terminated.