The criminal justice system can be a tricky environment to work within. Working with a bail bond company can make the experience much easier for you and your client.
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Know the Bail Amount
Many courts set a specific amount of money for bail. This is an amount that the accused must guarantee to return to court if they are released. The courts use a variety of factors to determine bail, such as the severity of the crime and the defendant’s criminal history.
If the defendant cannot pay their entire bail, they can seek assistance from a bond company. A bail bond agent will agree to post the rest of the bail for a fee. This fee is usually 10% of the total amount of the bail.
However, a bail bond agent will require collateral to secure the bail for their client. This can include a house, car, or other valuable property. If the accused fails to appear in court, the bail bond company must return the assets they used as security. This can leave family members in severe financial hardship. This is why it is essential to be sure that you are willing and able to attend all your court proceedings before you sign a bail bond agreement.
Know the Court Dates
Bail Bonds Lancaster County PA is a business that helps individuals escape jail by pledging money to free them. This business is risky because it relies on the accused attending all their scheduled court dates. That’s why the accused and their loved ones must meet several requirements and commitments to lower the risks for a bail bond agent.
This includes putting up property, such as a car or house, as collateral. It also requires the individual to attend all their court dates and make regular check-ins with their bail bond company.
Those who commit these violations are considered fugitives by the courts and will be allowed to return to their communities once they can show that they have attended all their required court dates. As a result, it’s essential to ask any company you work with about their history and record. If they need a better track record, keep looking for another option.
Know the Company’s Fees
A bail bond is a non-refundable fee that allows the defendant to avoid jail by guaranteeing they will attend all required court appearances. Bail bond agents are for-profit businesses that charge a non-refundable premium (often between 10% and 20% of the total bail amount) in exchange for taking on financial liability for the defendant in case they skip court.
The company should be licensed in your state and provide you with a contract detailing all the fees associated with the bond. Watch out for surety bondsmen who try to charge less than the state-approved rate; doing so is illegal.
Some bail bond companies accept credit cards, making it easier for loved ones to pay the fee. They may also require collateral, such as a house or car, which can be forfeited if the defendant skips court. A good bonding company will offer payment plans for those who cannot afford to pay the fee upfront.
Know Your Rights
If you’re thinking of working as a bail bondsman, it’s essential to know what your state requires of you. Each state has its licensing requirements, but all bondsmen must pass a 20-hour course on laws, ethics, and the rights of the accused. This training is vital to understanding the industry and makes connecting with instructors with years of experience navigating the profession easier.
Bail is a process that allows defendants to avoid jail time while they wait for their trial to begin. However, bail amounts are often beyond most people’s financial capabilities. That’s where a bail bond company steps in to help.
A good bail bond agent will educate the family on the court system and discuss their contract in detail. They will also reassure them every step of the way. This is especially beneficial for families unfamiliar with the criminal justice system.
