What Texas' Proposed Bail Reform Could Mean For You

 Posted on March 10, 2025 in Bail Bonds

As part of an ongoing effort to overhaul the bail system, Texas legislators have introduced several new bills that would change how the state handles bail bonds. If these bills become laws, people charged with crimes could face stricter terms of release and detention.

Regardless of what may come to pass, our bail bondsmen at Doc's Bail Bonds are here to help you get out of jail. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for calls, as we know just how urgent a criminal case may be. For families of the detained, we can help you locate an inmate to start the bail process.

New Crimes Ineligible for Bail

A new proposed bill, Senate Joint Resolution 5, would give judges the power to deny bail for certain crimes. These crimes include:

• Robbery or assault committed with a weapon
• Murder
• Aggravated kidnapping
• Felony sexual offenses

As it stands, most defendants in Texas can get out of jail with bail. Exceptions are only made for capital offenses or people with multiple felonies on record. This bill would come as a major departure from the Texas Constitution, which asserts that all defendants have a right to bail. In many cases, defendants accused of serious offenses can still be released on bond, with certain conditions from the court.

Immigration Status Affects Bail

Another bill introduced in February of this year, Senate Joint Resolution 1, would bar undocumented immigrants charged with felonies from being released on bail. In the proposed bill, bail would be denied to undocumented immigrants if the judge believes there is "probable cause" to charge the crime after a hearing.

Opponents of this bill have raised concerns about increased racial profiling. Supporters of the bill argue that it is a necessary measure for national security. If this bill is approved, it will be placed on a ballot for voters to decide in November 2025.

Stricter Bail for Certain Offenses

Alongside the other proposed bills, Senate Bill 9 would tighten bail requirements for certain crimes. Currently, many criminal violations in Texas are eligible for release with low bail or personal recognizance with the court. Senate Bill 9 would come with stricter bail requirements for the following crimes:

• Unlawful possession of a firearm
• Terroristic threats
• Murder as a result of manufacturing or distributing fentanyl
• Violation of a restraining order for domestic violence

If Senate Bill 9 becomes law, defendants accused of these crimes could no longer be released on personal bond. Instead, defendants would be required to pay bail for their release. At Doc's Bail Bonds, we can help you overcome the financial hurdle of paying bail upfront.

Contact a Dallas, TX Bail Bondsman Today

At Doc's Bail Bonds, we are here to help you and your loved ones get out of jail. With six offices in five different counties, we have served Texas residents with legal troubles for over 30 years. Whether the law changes or remains the same, Doc's Bail Bonds will provide you with upfront, compassionate service. Our Denton County, TX bail agents are available for contact at 214-747-4110.