Some Things To Know About Working With A Bail Bond Agency

If you have never needed help bailing someone out of jail in the past, you might not know a lot about what it is like working with a bail bond agency. While there may be some minor differences in how each bail agency will run its business, there are a lot of things that are fairly commonplace no matter who you choose to work with. Continue reading to learn more.

They Might Still Need You To Have Some Cash

You might have trouble getting the bail bond that is needed if you do not have any money to put toward the total amount owed. This is due to the fact that a lot of bondsmen will require a small percentage down. For example, you might need a few thousand dollars to get the process started. The higher the bail is set, the more you will need. You can call around to find out the percentage required by each bondsman in your area.

They Tend To Want Collateral For Large Bonds

The larger the bond needed, the more likely it is that you are going to be required to supply adequate collateral. Most bondsmen will accept things like the deed to a house or the title to a vehicle as collateral. In some cases, jewelry or other items can be accepted, but it will be a case-by-case situation. What they might accept from one person, they might not accept from another. A lot of their decision-making tends to tie into how much of a flight risk they believe the defendant might be.

You Are The Person Financially Responsible

Even though you are seeking this help to get someone else out of jail, it is ultimately you that is on the hook for all of the money that would be owed if the defendant did not appear in court as required. The bondsman could decide to take legal ownership of the collateral that you used and potentially take legal action against you if there is still more money owed. This is just something that you need to be aware of when moving forward.

Always remember that you get to decide which bail bondsmen you would like to receive help from. In turn, a bondsman can decide whether or not they are willing to help get your friend or family member out of jail. It is best to make an appointment to see the bail bondsman in person as soon as you can. After all, the sooner you get approved for the assistance, the sooner your friend or family member is going to be able to come home from jail, where it will be easier for them to work on their defense case.


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