If one of your loved ones is arrested and needs you to post bond to secure their release, there are a few facts that you should know. Taking the time to review the facts outlined below can help to ensure you are making a wise decision regarding their request for you to post bail and ultimately navigate your way through the bail bonds process.
Fact 1: The Upfront Fee You Pay When Obtaining A Bond Is Nonrefundable
When obtaining a bail bond, you will typically be required to pay 10% of your loved one's cash bail amount upfront. While many people assume that this fee works the same way as paying cash bail, this is not the case. When posting cash bail for your loved one, you will be eligible to receive your money back at the conclusion of your loved one's case, providing they attend each court date as instructed. In the case of a bail bond, the percentage of your loved one's cash bail that you pay is not actually used towards their bail. Instead, this money is an upfront fee that the bondsman charges to write a bond on your behalf. This fee is nonrefundable, even after the case has reached its conclusion.
Fact 2: You Can Be Held Responsible For The Total Amount Of Your Loved One's Bail
When obtaining a bail bond, you will be required to sign a promissory note that indicates you will pay the total amount of your loved one's bail if they fail to appear in court as instructed. In the event that you are unable to pay this amount, any collateral that you used to secure the bond can be seized and sold to cover the amount of your debt. Therefore, it is incredibly important that you can guarantee your loved one will appear in court as instructed before you agree to post bond on their behalf.
Fact 3: You May Be Able To Post Bond Via Phone, Fax, Or Email
If you and your loved one are not in the same city or state, you may still be able to post bond on their behalf. This is because many bail bondsman are now offering their services via the internet, as well as over the phone. When obtaining a bond in this manner, you will still need to provide the bondsman with proof of your identity and income, as well a signed promissory note. Consequently, you will need to have access to a fax machine or scanner that will allow you to send and receive this documentation.
Speak with professionals like A-1 BAIL BONDS INC. for more info.
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