What are Bail Bonds?

For some individuals who are facing significant criminal charges, the term bail bonds may be unfamiliar. Or, the term is familiar, you’ve never had to pay it before or communicate with an agent. The good news is that there is plenty of information available for you to learn how to look out for your loved one who has been arrested or to look out for yourself. 

Yes, there are scams out there, but it is pretty easy to avoid them, if you are careful and prepared. You have to first keep in mind that the law(s) that have broken have been set in placed and reinforced by the state. Therefore, bail bonds agents should also be licensed by the state in order to grant such services. This is the first giant indication that someone may be trying to get you into further financial or legal trouble. But, there are individuals and firms out there who understand that you are anxious while your freedom is in the balance, they don’t want to take advantage of you. As long as you show up to court, their surety bond to you will be complete and everyone can move forward.

First, you have to come up with your percentage of the bail when it is granted. It is important to work with a family member or advisor with how you intend to put together the collateral for between 10 and 15% of your entire bail amount. You may be able to quickly pull together $500 or $2000 from family and friends, but for larger amounts you may need to sell your automobile or put up your home, which is possible with some bail bond agencies. Some agencies in your area also accept financing in addition to preferred cash or credit card. The agency will put up all of the rest of the bail with their insurance company. This surety bond is a risk to them because, as someone they do not know, they are making positive claims about your character to the court. They are implying, with their financial voucher, that you are going to show up to all court dates without anyone having to track you down. 

Many defendants are already familiar with the reality of a warrant out for their arrest or a bounty hunter out for the same. Bounty hunters are used in all states, but the police will be looking out for accused defendants who are flight risks attempting to skip out on bail. This is why it is important to utilize granted bail bond time with your criminal lawyer, so that you could end your legal bought with permanent freedom instead of temporary.