Understanding Immigration Bonds in Louisiana: What You Need to Know

Louisiana is one of 22 U.S. states with bail laws that have been amended to include provisions for preventive detention. This means certain defendants may be denied bail entirely, depending on the severity of their charges and perceived threat to public safety.

But what does this mean for immigrants detained by ICE in Louisiana?

If you have a loved one in detention, it’s essential to understand how bail works in the state and what options are available to help bring them home while they await their immigration court hearings.

Preventive Detention in Louisiana

According to Article I, Section 18 of the Louisiana Constitution, a person is entitled to bail except when:

• They are charged with a capital offense and there is evident proof and presumption of guilt.

• They are charged with a violent crime or the possession/distribution of controlled dangerous substances, and:

  • There is strong evidence of guilt, and

  • A judge or magistrate deems them a flight risk or imminent danger to the community.

For immigrants in ICE custody, this means that if your loved one does not fall under these exceptions, they likely qualify for an immigration bond hearing, where their eligibility for temporary release will be assessed.

Types of Immigration Bonds in Louisiana

There are two main types of immigration bonds available for ICE detainees:

1. Delivery Bond

This bond allows the individual to return home while they prepare for their immigration court date. They must agree to attend all required hearings.

2. Voluntary Departure Bond

If the detainee agrees to leave the U.S. voluntarily, this bond allows them to do so by a specific date. If they follow through, the bond amount is refundable.

Bail Options for Immigration Bonds in Louisiana

If a judge grants bond, here are the main ways to post it:

✅ 1. Personal Recognizance

In rare cases, especially for non-violent detainees, the judge may release the person without requiring a bond payment. This is also known as release on one's own recognizance.

💵 2. Cash Bond

The simplest option—you (or someone on your behalf) pay the full bond amount directly to the Department of Homeland Security. This must be done with a cashier’s check, made out to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.” ICE does not accept cash or personal checks.

🏢 3. Commercial Surety Bond

This is where a licensed bail bonds company, like Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds, posts the bond on your behalf. You typically pay a non-refundable premium (usually 15%) and may need to offer collateral (like property or cash assets).

🏠 4. Property Bond

In some cases, you can post bond using real estate. The property must be free of liens and equal to or exceed the bail amount. This option is less common due to the legal processes involved.

What Happens After Posting an Immigration Bond?

Once the bond is posted—whether through DHS or a bail bond agent—your loved one will usually be released that same day, depending on the time and processing speed.

However, their responsibilities don’t end there:

• They must attend all court hearings and comply with ICE check-ins.

• If they miss a court date, the bond is forfeited, and they may be detained again.

• If a bail bonds company posted the bond and the person fails to appear, you as the co-signer will still be responsible for the bond amount.

Choose a Compassionate Bail Bonds Company

Immigration cases are stressful enough. That’s why Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds provides:

• ✅ Nationwide immigration bond services

• ✅ Flexible payment plans

• ✅ Fast, compassionate support

• ✅ Multilingual agents to serve both English and Spanish-speaking clients

We’ll walk you through the process and help secure your loved one’s release as quickly as possible.

📞 Get Help Today

Need help with an immigration bond in Louisiana?
Contact Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds for a free consultation and fast assistance.

👉 Contact Us
📱 Or call us 24/7 at (800) 969-3484

Let us help bring your loved one home.