Statistics About The Average Bail Amount

In this post, we examine a comprehensive overview of bail statistics in the United States. From the average bail amounts for felony and misdemeanor cases to insights on the percentage of defendants released on bail or by court order, we explore the varying trends across different regions and offense types. Understanding the nuances of bail practices can shed light on the challenges faced by individuals within the criminal justice system.

Statistic 1

"The average bail for felony defendants in the U.S. is about $10,000."

Statistic 2

"The nationwide average bail amount for misdemeanors is $1,500 as per BJS statistics."

Statistic 3

"About 2 out of 3 felony defendants in large urban U.S. counties were released either on bail or by court order."

Statistic 4

"In 15 of the 40 largest U.S. counties, more than half of released felony defendants were required to post bail."

Statistic 5

"In 2017, the average bail in California was reportedly over $50,000."

Statistic 6

"In 2006, the median bail in the 75 largest U.S. counties was $55,400 for drug offenses and $10,000 for public-order offenses."

Statistic 7

"In 2006 approximately 46% of defendants had bail amounts set at $5,000 or less."

Statistic 8

"In New York City, the average bail for a misdemeanor is around $1,000 according to Center for Court Innovation."

Statistic 9

"For offenses that are violent but non-homicidal, bail can range between $90,000-$100,000 according to Bail Bonds Network."

Statistic 10

"In San Francisco, the average bail amount is around $50,000, as per the San Francisco Public Defender’s Office."

Statistic 11

"In 2009, approximately 61% of people in jail awaiting trial had a bail amount set but could not meet the financial requirements."

Statistic 12

"In Los Angeles, California, the bail for possession with the intent to sell narcotics is set at $30,000, according to the Los Angeles Superior Court Bail Schedule."

Statistic 13

"According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, at least 6 out of 10 jailed people are eligible to be released on bail."

Statistic 14

"The median bail bond amount in Texas is $5,000."

Statistic 15

"According to the Southern Coalition for Social Justice, a third of individuals with a bail set had an amount of $5,000 or less in North Carolina."

Statistic 16

"According to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), people sitting in jails around the country are usually there because they cannot afford to pay bail. About 34% of defendants nationwide are held in jail pretrial."

Statistic 17

"The mean bail amount set for detained defendants from 1990-2004 increased 43%, adjusting for inflation, from $38,800 to $55,400."

In the United States, bail amounts vary significantly depending on the type of offense and the jurisdiction. Felony defendants face an average bail of around $10,000, while misdemeanors typically have bail amounts averaging $1,500. The data shows that a substantial proportion of defendants, particularly in large urban counties, are required to post bail for their release. However, it is evident that the financial burden of meeting bail requirements disproportionately affects many individuals, leading to a significant percentage being unable to afford their bail and remaining in jail pretrial. The statistics emphasize the need for a more equitable and just system that considers the financial capabilities of defendants when determining bail amounts.