When those jail bars close behind you after an arrest and the sound of the lock clinking shut fills your ears, seconds can turn into hours. If you want to get out of jail as quickly as possible, you will need to recruit the service of a bail bond service to help you out. This process can be completely foreign to you if you have never been arrested before, or if you have never had to go through a bail bond service.
So what should a person know when it comes time to use one of these services? Read this guide to find out.
#1: Understand The Process, To See If Bail Bond Service Is Needed
It is best to know a little bit about the bail bond process, so that you are always prepared if you ever need it. When you get arrested, the judge sets a bail amount, as a show of good faith that you will show up to your set court date. The amount of bail is set based upon both the nature of your alleged crime and the likelihood that you can be trusted to show up to court. People who can afford the bail amount typically write a check. If you can't afford it, you can secure the services of a bond agent, who will pay it for you.
You will owe the bail bond company a percentage of the full amount. For example, if bail is set at $200,000 and the company charges 10 percent, you will owe $20,000. If you don't have the liquid funds required, you can use your home, car or other property as collateral.
#2: Verify That The Bail Bond Company Is Properly Licensed
When on the phone with the bail bond agent, ask them to provide you with their state license number. They are required to provide proof of a current license. It is unlawful for any company to provide you services without current licensure and insurance. This protects you in making sure that the company is reputable and that the money they provide you is insured.
#3: Get All Details In Writing Before Leaving The Jail
You might be eager to leave the jail, but stay put until you understand every single detail of the agreement. The bail bond company will pay for your release, but you need to know exactly what is required on your end, including:
- All fees and interest rates
- Dates and timetables for payment
- Collateral property, if applicable
- Methods for payment
When you have satisfied these tips, you will be in a good position to secure the services of a bail bond agent. You can learn more here.
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