Is A 20,000 Bond High? Compare Costs And Legal Implications
When you hear the figure $20,000 bond, it can sound intimidating. But is this amount considered high in Kansas? Bail amounts vary depending on the charges, risk factors, and judicial discretion. In many Sedgwick County cases, $20,000 is a moderate figure, serious enough to show the court takes the case seriously, but not among the largest bonds we see. Below, we explain what this number means, how courts decide on bail, and what your options are if you or a loved one is facing this situation.
What Does a $20,000 Bond Mean?
In Kansas, a $20,000 bond means the defendant must either post the full amount in cash/property or work with a licensed bondsman to post a surety bond for a fraction of that total. Courts set this figure to balance the seriousness of the charge with the defendant’s likelihood of returning to court.
Why Courts Set Bail at This Level
Moderate Felony Charges
$20,000 bonds often appear in cases involving mid-level felonies or repeat misdemeanor charges. They are not the highest, but they are still significant.
Flight Risk
Courts evaluate whether the defendant has strong community ties. If there’s some risk, judges may set bail higher than lower-level cases.
Public Safety
If the alleged offense involved potential harm, courts may use $20,000 as a middle ground to ensure accountability.
Prior Record
A history of missed court dates or prior convictions can influence bail decisions.
Wichita & Sedgwick County Process
After arrest, defendants are booked at the Sedgwick County Jail. Bail is typically set during the first appearance in Sedgwick County District Court. In certain municipal cases, the City of Wichita court system may also be involved. The $20,000 figure is not unusual in Sedgwick County, depending on the severity of the charge.
Local Rule 303 & Senate Bill 473
Bail in Sedgwick County is guided by Local Rule 303, which outlines how bonds are set and processed. The rule also appears in the official Sedgwick County criminal procedure PDF, providing consistency in court practices.
Additionally, Senate Bill 473 has reformed bail procedures across Kansas, giving courts more tools to assess risk and fairness. Both the local rule and the new law help shape how bonds like $20,000 are applied in Wichita cases.
Options for Paying a $20,000 Bond
- Cash or Property Bond – Post the full amount directly with the court.
- Surety Bond – Work with a bondsman to pay a percentage, 10%.
- Bond Review – An attorney can request reconsideration if the amount feels excessive.
- Alternative Conditions – In rare cases, judges may consider supervision or monitoring instead of high cash bail.
How a Bondsman Can Help
Paying $20,000 in full is not realistic for most families. A bondsman offers a path forward by posting a surety bond for a percentage of the amount. At All In Bail Bonds, we assist clients throughout Wichita and Sedgwick County with affordable bail solutions. Call us anytime at 316-553-1236 or visit us at 700 N Market, Ste 7, Wichita, KS 67214.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a $20,000 bond considered high?
It’s a moderate amount. For serious felonies, bonds can reach six figures, but $20,000 still reflects significant charges.
How much would a bondsman charge on $20,000?
Typically around 10%, or $2,000, depending on the situation and agreements.
Can bail at this level be reduced?
Yes. Your attorney may request a bond review or modification based on mitigating factors.
What happens if someone misses court?
Failure to appear can result in bond forfeiture, a warrant, and additional penalties.
Contact All In Bail Bonds
If you or a loved one is facing a $20,000 bond in Wichita or Sedgwick County, you don’t have to handle it alone. Visit our home page, use our contact page, or call 316-553-1236 for immediate help.
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