When someone is arrested, one of the first questions families ask is: “Can they get out without paying anything?”
In North Carolina, the answer is sometimes — but it depends entirely on the type of bail the judge chooses and the defendant’s background.
Unsecured bonds and personal recognizance releases can sound like the perfect solution, but they come with conditions, risks, and real financial consequences if anything goes wrong.
Not every release requires cash upfront, but that doesn’t mean it’s free. Here’s what unsecured bail really means in North Carolina.
With unsecured bail, no money is paid upfront. Instead, the defendant signs an agreement promising to appear in court.
If they miss court, the judge can require them to pay the full bail amount, which may be thousands of dollars.
Judges may consider unsecured bail when the defendant:
Unsecured bail is essentially a trust-based release, but only when the judge feels confident the defendant will return to court.
Review the NC General Statute on Pretrial Release Conditions, which outlines unsecured and secured bail requirements.
Secured bail:
Unsecured bail:
You can also read the NC Judicial Branch’s overview of the four types of pretrial release that judges may impose.
Even though unsecured bail sounds easier, most defendants do not qualify. Judges tend to use secured bail when they need assurance the person will return.
Get answers about secured, unsecured, and cash bonds in North Carolina
An unsecured bond sounds great until something goes wrong.
Because no money is paid upfront, courts consider unsecured releases higher risk, and defendants must follow every condition exactly. Failure to do so triggers major consequences:
Review North Carolina’s serious penalties for failure to appear under NC General Statute § 15A-543.
Unsecured bail is helpful when it’s granted, but it’s not as risk-free as many families think.
If a judge assigns a secured bond — or if families are concerned about the risks of unsecured release — a licensed bail bondsman is often the safer option.
Using a bail bondsman provides:
Our experienced North Carolina team helps clients make the best choice for their situation.
Judges consider several factors before granting unsecured bail:
Those with minor charges, clean records, and strong ties to their community have the best chance.
For repeat offenses, felony charges, or situations involving public safety concerns, a secured bond is almost always required.
If you’re unsure what to expect, you can reach out before the first hearing. Contact Big Mike Bail Bonds to talk to a local agent who understands court processes across Wake, Durham, and Johnston County.
No. It’s typically reserved for first-time or low-risk defendants with strong ties to the community.
You immediately owe the full bail amount, and a warrant may be issued for your arrest.
Yes. If the judge changes your release conditions, a bondsman can post a secured bond quickly.
Unsecured bail can be helpful, but it’s not available to everyone, and it comes with serious responsibilities. Most families still choose bail bonds for faster release, clearer guidance, and affordable payment options.
Big Mike Bail Bonds works across Raleigh, Durham, Smithfield, and surrounding North Carolina towns to help clients understand every bail option available day or night.
Not sure which bail type applies to your case? Call Big Mike’s 24/7 team to get clear answers today.