How Much Does a Bail Bond Cost in West Virginia?

Craven Bail Bonds

Sep 21

3 min read

Updated: Oct 16

If someone you care about was just arrested in West Virginia, the first question is almost always the same: what is this going to cost? Here is the straight answer from a licensed West Virginia bail agent, with real numbers and no surprises.

The legal minimum: 10% of the bond amount

West Virginia Code §51-10-5a requires a bonding fee of at least 10% of the bond amount. This is a legal minimum, not a quote for every bond. Confirm the agency's actual fee in the written agreement. A surety bond creates a financial obligation to the court if its conditions are not met.

For example, at a 10% fee, a $10,000 bond would have a $1,000 bonding fee. This example is not a quote or a guarantee of release. The court's order and facility processing control release.

Worked examples

These examples calculate the 10% minimum; the actual quoted fee and requirements must be confirmed:

$1,000 bail: $100 premium
$5,000 bail: $500 premium
$10,000 bail: $1,000 premium
$25,000 bail: $2,500 premium
$50,000 bail: $5,000 premium

To calculate 10%, divide the bond amount by ten. The law sets a minimum fee rather than one universal price. Call (304) 980-6650 to discuss the actual fee and requirements for your situation.

Understand the fee and refund terms

The bonding fee pays for the agency's service and is different from a cash deposit with the court. Before signing, ask when the fee is earned and what refund terms apply under the written agreement.

A cash deposit with the court and an agency fee have different terms. Ask the court clerk about the conditions, permitted deductions and process for return of a deposit. Ask the agency to explain when its fee is earned and what refund terms apply under the written agreement.

Payment arrangements and collateral

Call to ask about accepted payment methods, any available payment arrangements, and cosigner or collateral requirements. No particular arrangement or collateral waiver is promised. Review the total fee, amount due and payment schedule before signing.

For bond questions, call (304) 980-6650. Confirm calling and payment options directly with the agency.

Are there other costs?

The premium is the bail agency's fee. Court costs, fines, restitution, and any fees charged by the court or the regional jail are separate, are set by the court, and are the defendant's responsibility regardless of how bail was posted. Before you sign anything with us, ask what the total will be. We will tell you plainly.

What you need to get started

When you call, it helps to have the defendant's full legal name, date of birth, the jail where they are being held, and the bail amount if you know it. If you do not know the bail amount or which regional jail they are in, that is fine. We can look it up with you.

Frequently asked questions

How do I confirm the bonding fee?

Ask for the actual fee and any available payment terms in writing. West Virginia Code §51-10-5a sets the minimum bonding fee. Read the law at https://code.wvlegislature.gov/51-10-5A/.

Do I get the premium back if the case is dismissed?

Do not assume dismissal of the case returns the agency fee. Review the written agreement's refund terms and ask the agency to explain them before signing.

What if I cannot afford the quoted fee today?

Call (304) 980-6650 to discuss whether a payment arrangement is available for your situation. Availability, the required initial payment and the schedule must be confirmed before you commit.