Our Model

WE PAY BAIL DIRECTLY TO THE COURT TO HAVE 100% OF IT REFUNDED.

We avoid involvement with the commercial bail bond industry. This $2 billion industry profits by imposing nonrefundable costs on those who can least afford them. Bail agents often target Black mamas and caregivers, knowing they may have limited financial resources and little knowledge of their legal rights. As a result, many are trapped in predatory contracts that create long-term, inescapable cycles of debt. When a bail bond agent posts bail for someone, they typically require friends or family members to sign a contract making them liable for up to 140% of the total bond amount.

We are not bounty hunters, nor do we engage in punitive supervision. We stand alongside every Black mama and caregiver we bail out, ensuring they have the support they need to attend court. We don’t make assumptions about what people need—we ask. Our priority is to eliminate the barriers that often prevent people from showing up to court or fighting their case. In most cases, when someone misses court, it’s not due to unwillingness but to real-life challenges: they can’t afford to miss work, lack transportation, don’t have childcare, or haven’t received accurate, up-to-date information about when and where to appear. Some may not even know they have a mandatory court date at all.

WHEN A BLACK MAMA/CAREGIVER'S CASE IS CLOSED, THE MONEY IS REFUNDED AND RETURNS TO OUR BAIL OUT FUND.

The majority of our Black mamas and caregivers attend their court dates—even when they have no money on the line. This proves that it’s not bail that brings people back to court—it’s community support and care.

We ensure every Black mama and caregiver has access to the resources they need, including:

Childcare to attend court

Court reminders and transportation

Legal aid

Short- and long-term housing assistance

Meals after release and groceries

Mental health and substance use support

Clothing for job interviews

Help with past-due utility bills, car repossession, and health insurance

Coverage for court fines and fees, including ankle monitors and court-ordered treatment or programs

THE MONEY IS USED TO FREE SOMEONE ELSE, AND THE CYCLE CONTINUES.

Once our Black mamas and caregivers return to court and their cases are closed, the bail money is refunded to our revolving bail fund, allowing us to free even more people. Since 2017, National Bail Out has bailed out over 1,000 Black mamas and caregivers.