The Bail Bonding Process - How Bail Bonds Works
Posting a bail bond involves a contractual undertaking
guaranteed by a bail agency,
surety and the indemnitor (usually a relative or close
friend). The bail bond is a financial guarantee to the court
that the defendant will appear in court each and every time
the court orders.
For this service, the bail agent charges a premium for the
service (typically 10% of
the full bail amount). In addition, the bail agency may
require physical collateral,
the signing of a bail bond agreement (contract), or both,
depending on the individual
circumstances. Often times a defendant can be bailed out of
jail with only the signature of a responsible indemnitor.
After an agreement is reached between the bail agent and the
indemnitor and all fees
are paid, the bail agent physically posts a bail bond for
the full bail amount with the jail or court. The defendant
is released on bail and given a date and location to appear
in court.
If the defendant fails to appear in court, the indemnitor is
responsible for paying the
full amount of the bail. If the defendant is located and
arrested by the bail agent the
indemnitor is responsible for all expenses incurred by the
bail agent while looking for the defendant.
Note: It is very important the indemnitor feels confident
the defendant will appear in all of his/her court
appearances or posting a bail bond is not recommended.
Like most businesses, some bail agencies are owned and
operated by honest, hard-working, reputable professionals
and some are not. Please protect yourself and your family by
following these few simple consumer tips:
- Be sure you only contract with a licensed bail
agent. Ask to see the bail agent’s license and
identification prior to any bail transaction.
- Be sure the bail agent charges you only legal rates.
The premium charged for a bail bond in most states is
normally 10% of the full bail amount. Any additional
charges should be itemized and explained to your
satisfaction. Be sure you are given receipts for all
charges.
- Be sure you are given copies of all signed contracts
and agreements.
If you are concerned about working with a particular bail
agency, do not enter into a bail bond agreement with them.
There are plenty of qualified bail professionals available
to assist you. We hope you choose us for all of your bail
bond needs.
