Felony bonds are more complex than misdemeanor bonds — higher bond amounts, more extensive review by the court, and often conditions of release that require careful explanation. Mary Ellen's has handled felony bonds for over 40 years in all 8 counties we serve.
For felonies, bond amounts generally aren't on a fixed schedule. A judge sets the amount based on the charge class (F1 through F6), the defendant's history, flight risk considerations, and the specifics of the case. That means each felony bond is individually evaluated — but we can give you realistic expectations based on thousands of similar cases we've worked.
Felony classes in Colorado
Colorado felonies are classified from F1 (most serious — includes first-degree murder) to F6 (least serious — low-level felonies). F5 and F6 often have bond amounts similar to serious misdemeanors. F3 and F4 bonds typically run several thousand to tens of thousands. F1 and F2 bonds can reach hundreds of thousands and sometimes no bond at all (preventive detention). We'll tell you honestly where your loved one's case is likely to fall.
The first appearance and bond hearing
In-custody felony defendants appear before a judge typically within 48 hours of arrest (sooner for weekday arrests). At first appearance, the judge reviews the charges, sets bond if not already set, and imposes any conditions of release. For some serious felonies, the DA may request a bond hearing where both sides argue for or against release — bond hearings can be set quickly or can take several days to schedule.
Conditions of release
- No contact with alleged victims or witnesses
- No firearms or weapons
- No alcohol or controlled substances (with testing)
- GPS or ankle monitoring (for some cases)
- Residence requirements
- Regular check-ins with pre-trial services
- Travel restrictions (often state or county-wide)
Information we need
- Defendant's full name and date of birth
- The jail where they are being held
- Charges (if known)
- Bond amount (if set)
- A cosigner with verifiable identity, address, and income
- Collateral if the bond is large (real estate, vehicle title, cash equivalent)
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a felony bond typically cost?
There is no single typical amount. Low-level felonies (F5, F6) may have bonds of $2,000-$10,000. Mid-range (F3, F4) often run $10,000-$50,000. Serious felonies (F1, F2) can be $100,000 or more. Our fee is a percentage of the bond amount, regulated by Colorado law.
Do I need collateral for a felony bond?
For higher bond amounts, yes. Collateral can be real estate, vehicle titles, or other assets of appropriate value. For lower amounts we can sometimes post with just a cosigner. We'll tell you what's needed based on the specific bond amount.
Can you post a bond for a no-bond case?
A judge has ruled that no bond is allowed for that defendant on that case. A bondsman cannot override a no-bond order. An attorney can file a motion to set bond, and if successful we can post once bond is established.
What if the bond is too high to afford the bondsman's fee?
Mary Ellen's offers payment plans on the premium (our fee) for qualifying clients. The bond itself still needs to be posted in full with the court — that's what we handle — but we can sometimes work out payment arrangements on our fee.