Bail bonds are an integral part of the legal system, but many people don’t understand what bail bonds really are or how they work. In most states, bail bonds are required in order to ensure that the accused person shows up to all of their court dates.
Here are four important facts about bail bonds you should know before you find yourself in need of them.
1. Bail Money can be Restored
A bail bond is a guarantee that a defendant or accused person will appear in court. If the defendant fails to appear, the bondsman or bail bonds company (the person who issued the bail bond) can pay the penalty of selling their property as payment for failing to uphold their end of the agreement.
The defendant should keep their bail agent up-to-date on their status. They should contact the agent if they are arrested again or plan on changing residence. The agent may also be able to help you find other resources, such as pretrial services or drug and alcohol treatment programs.
Bond agents have many years of experience with different types of cases and can help guide you through your options.
2. Bail Bond is a Kind of Financing
Bail bonds are a kind of financing that is used when someone has been arrested and needs to get out of jail. The bail bond company guarantees the full amount of the bail, which can range from $500 to $25,000 or more.
If the person doesn’t show up for their court date, then they lose their bond money, but if they do appear in court as required, then they will be refunded the entire amount plus any interest, if applicable.
3. The Premium is Non-Refundable
The premium for a bail bond is non-refundable. This means that the money you pay is gone and cannot be taken back. If your bail bond doesn’t work, you will have to come up with the funds on your own in order to get out of jail until your trial date.
Bail bonds are an expensive way of paying for release from jail, which can make it hard if you don’t have a lot of money saved up or friends who are willing to help you out.
4. Bail Bond Agents are Regulated by the State
Bail bond agents are regulated by the state, so it is important to make sure that your agent has a license. The agency should be able to provide you with their regulatory information.
When you are looking for an agent, be sure that they have been in business for at least three years. They should have references and testimonials from previous clients. If you don’t know anyone who can recommend an agent, you can look over on online platforms or just Google to find one near you.
Bail bond agents can help you in more than one way, so it’s important to be aware of every benefit a bail bond can have for you. However, be sure to cross-check the credibility of bail bondsmen before availing their services.
