The bonding process may enable inmates to be released from custody while waiting for their court date. There are four types of bonds.

1. Cash Bond - The full amount of the bond is paid in cash directly to the court or to a bonding agency. The bond will be returned (less any fines and costs imposed) after the case is complete. The Doña Ana County Detention Center does not process cash bonds on site.
2. Surety Bond - (Professional Bondsman) - A licensed bondsman posts the bond and charges a fee based on a percentage of the inmate's total bond. Detention staff is not allowed to recommend a bondsman or bonding company. Either the detainee or the detainee's family/friends must initiate contact with a bondsman.
3. Property Bond - If the inmate, a relative or a friend has sufficient equity in a home, building, or real estate, he or she may be allowed to use that property as collateral for a property bond. A property bond must be posted through the court.
4. Personal Recognizance Bond - Promise to appear in court when ordered and the inmate's agreement to abide by any special conditions that may be a condition of the bond. The judge may also require that the bond be co-signed by a second person to further insure the inmate's appearance in court.

Prior to the first court appearance after arrest, the only bonds normally available are cash and surety bonds. A judge must authorize any other type of bond.

All cash bonds must be paid at the court of record or jurisdiction. Cash for bonds will not be accepted at the Detention Center. The Detention Center will accept Money orders or Cashier’s checks made to the court of record/jurisdictions for bonds. Bonds may also be paid from the inmate's commissary account. Cashier's checks or money orders should be made payable to the appropriate court.