How to Choose a Bail Bondsman
Posted on January 1st, 2009 by monsterguide
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Many people think of the word “bail” and have horrifying thoughts of jail, court proceedings, and having to go through the rest of their lives being labeled as criminals. Going to jail or appearing as the accused in the courts can be very a very humiliating and emotional burden, and can sometimes force people into making the wrong decisions. Not too many people have had experiences with bail bond agents, and the bail bond system is quite misunderstood in many states. In the event that you need to get someone out of jail, a bail bondsman can help you accomplish that task. Here are tips that you can use in case you need to find a bail bondsman.
What is a Bail Bondsman?
A bail bond is a guarantee made to the courts where in the event the accused is freed from prison on bail, he or she will make all the appearances demanded of him or her by the judge. The bail bond is the assurance of the court that the defendant will stand trial when the date of the hearing is set.
With the bail bond set, the accused should fulfill all legal obligations related to court proceedings, which means that he or she cannot escape bail and should appear at the hearings of his or her case. In the event that the accused does not show up, the bail bond agency acts as a bounty hunter (in states and jurisdictions where it is legal) to track down the accused.
The cost of the bail bond is called a premium. For most bail bond agencies, the cost of the premium is about 10% of the total amount of the bail. The person who pays the premium is called the indemnitor. Bail set at $10,000, for example, will mean that you have to put up at $1,000 payment to the bail bond agency so that they will put up the $10,000 guarantee, and the suspect can then be released from jail. You cannot get back the $1,000 guarantee.
A bail bond relieves you of the hassle of having to post bail on your own. It also allows you to focus your energies on hiring a lawyer, or exploring the reasons why your friend or family member got to jail in the first place.
Looking for a Bail Bond Agency
Most people think of bail bond agencies and think automatically of small-time operators at Skid Row or the red-light district. It’s best to stay away from operations like these, and look for credible ones that have a good track record. Keep the following tips in mind:
- Legality. Four states in the US have banned bail bonding: Wisconsin, Kentucky, Oregon, and Illinois. You need to check with your lawyer about options for bail and conditions for temporary release if you live in these areas.
- Standing record. Bail bond agencies should have a good reputation and should do brisk business, especially if you live in a crime-infested area.
- Licensing. One way that you can be absolutely sure about the agency is to check their licenses. Do not transact business with a bail bond agency that is not licensed or accredited by an insurance agency or law enforcement agencies.
- Financing options. For bail that is set high, you may need to pay collateral or take out a bank loan to pay the premium. Read through the contract of the bail bond agency first before taking out collateral or paying the downpayment.
It’s still best to consult your family lawyer before transacting business with a bail bond agency. With these tips to help you choose a bail bond agency, you’re sure to get your friend or family member free, and let justice be served.
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