What a $10,000 Bond Costs

In Kansas district court, the typical surety bond premium is 10% of the court-set bail. For a $10,000 bond, that premium is $1,000. This premium is a service fee for guaranteeing the defendant’s appearance and is generally non-refundable.

• Bail set by court- $10,000
• Standard premium (10%)- $1,000
• Minimum due before posting (50% of premium): $500
• Balance of premium: $500 (may be handled via approved payment arrangements, subject to underwriting)

Depending on case risk, prior history, employment, and residence, a bondsman may request collateral (cash, property, vehicle title). All terms should be disclosed to you in writing.

How Kansas SB 473 (K.S.A. 22-2809b) Affects Payment

Senate Bill 473 (2024), codified at K.S.A. 22-2809b, standardized compensated surety practices in Kansas district courts. Key consumer points:

• Minimum premium: The bondsman must charge at least 10% of the appearance bond.
• Money due before posting: The bondsman must receive at least one-half of the minimum premium before filing the bond (e.g., $500 on a $1,000 premium).
• Financing the rest: Any unpaid portion of the minimum premium requires a written premium financing agreement.
• Presence & signature: The bondsman must be physically present when the bond is posted and sign the bond at the jail.

Practically: To start a $10,000 bond in Wichita, arrive with $500 minimum and valid ID. Your agent will handle the remaining steps and paperwork.

Sedgwick County Local Rule 303: Local Requirements

Local Rule 303 (Compensated Surety Rules and Procedures) governs how bail agents operate in the 18th Judicial District (Sedgwick County, including Wichita). Highlights:

• Authorized agents only: Bonds must be posted by approved compensated sureties and bail agents in good standing with the court.
• State-law compliance: Agents must follow K.S.A. 22-2806 through 22-2809b (which includes the SB 473 provisions above).
• Local procedures: The district sets documentation, ID, and filing standards to ensure bonds are valid and enforceable.

Using a locally authorized bondsman helps avoid rejected paperwork and processing delays.

What This Means for Families in Wichita

• A $10,000 bond carries a $1,000 premium.
• You must bring at least $500 before the bond can be posted.
• Collateral and documentation may be required based on risk.
• Only authorized agents under Local Rule 303 may post bonds in Sedgwick County courts.

Tip: Have the defendant’s full name and booking number (if available) ready. Ask for court-date reminders via text so no appearance is missed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the $1,000 premium refundable if the case is dismissed?

No. The premium pays for risk and services and is not refunded at the end of the case.

Can we post the full $10,000 ourselves instead of using a bondsman?

Yes. Full cash bail is typically returned at case conclusion if all appearances are made (minus any court-ordered fees/fines). Many families use a bondsman to avoid tying up $10,000.

Will I need collateral for a $10,000 bond?

Sometimes. Collateral depends on underwriting factors (charge, history, job, residence). Your agent will explain options and provide documents in writing.

What forms of payment are accepted for the $500 minimum?

State law allows cash and certain electronic transfers prior to the bond’s execution. Your agent will confirm accepted methods and provide receipts.

How does Local Rule 303 speed things up?

Rule 303 limits posting to authorized agents and sets clear filing steps. Working with a local authorized bondsman helps prevent delays and rejected filings.

Call Baxter Bail Bonds

Ready to post a $10,000 bond in Sedgwick County? We’ll walk you through costs, documents, and next steps—fast. Contact Baxter Bail Bonds at (316) 554-0414 or visit 700 N Market, Wichita, KS 67214 for immediate assistance.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Bail decisions and requirements vary by case. Always consult your attorney and your licensed bail agent about your specific situation.