Looking out for an agent to guide you through the bailing process? Know which type of bond fits your case from a good bail bondsman and decide on a suitable plan of action.
A bail bondsman is a person who provides various services to those who find themselves in trouble with the law by ensuring payment of the offender’s bond. The court will,
at times, release the accused from jail only if the offender can afford the security amount that is set by the law. In some cases the suspect cannot make the surety amount so his family communicates with the bondsman, seeking help to make the payment. In some cases these agents will pay the sum due on behalf of the client. When this is done, the family will pay a premium on the payable amount or sign over a lien on personal property.
An agent has a specific duty to guarantee the full payment of the bond, should the suspect fail to make an appearance. Because he could lose a substantial amount of money if the accused makes a no show in court, the bondsman often requires the offender’s family to pay at least 10% of the total payable. In addition, a lien must also be signed over on the family’s personal belongings or property such as a house, land or other assets. Also, there may be a service fee of several hundred dollars.
For example, if the bail is set at $10,000, the defendant pays the agent $1,000 (10% of the total amount). And if the perpetrator appears on the scheduled date, the agent does not pay anything.
The bondsman states the client’s background and criminal record to decide if that person is at risk of not showing for court dates.
He finishes the paper work and keeps a record in his or her files.
He works in a timely manner in order to get the defendant out of jail. Once the defendant is released, he or she is free to leave; however, the defendant must agree to return on the appointed date.
There are several types:
Surety bond—an agent guarantees that they will pay if the accused doesn’t show up in court.
Cash bail—this is when the perpetrator must post bail in cash and not in assets.
Property—this is when a lien on a property is made to ensure the payment.
Release on Personal Recognizance—the accused is released without any financial motive to secure their return.
Unsecured Personal—there is a cash penalty if the offender fails to appear.
Secured Personal—this is where the suspect is allowed to post his or her own bond directly to the court.
Pre-Trial Release -- an officer of the pretrial release unit agrees to take the defendant’s case and the accused is released after meeting specific requirements for participation in the program.
