We’ve put together some commonly asked questions to give you more information about our site. If you have a question that you can’t find the answer to, please use the Contact Us page.
What is a bail bond?
A bail bond is a legal contract between a bail bondsman and the court to secure the release of a defendant from jail. It serves as a guarantee that the defendant will appear in court for their scheduled hearings.
How does a bail bond work?
When someone is arrested, their bail amount is set by the court. The defendant or their loved ones can approach a bail bondsman to post the bail on their behalf, usually paying a percentage (typically 10%) of the total bail amount as a fee. The bail bondsman then assumes responsibility for ensuring the defendant’s appearance in court.
What are the advantages of using a bail bond service?
Using a bail bond service allows defendants to be released from jail promptly without having to pay the full bail amount upfront. It also offers expert guidance throughout the legal process and helps protect the defendant’s privacy during release.
What percentage do bail bond companies typically charge?
Bail bond companies usually charge around 10% of the total bail amount as their fee. This fee is non-refundable and serves as the bondsman’s compensation for taking on the financial risk of the defendant’s release.
What happens if the defendant fails to appear in court after being released on bail?
If the defendant misses a court appearance, a warrant is issued for their arrest, and the bail bond is forfeited. The bail bondsman may then employ a bounty hunter to locate and apprehend the defendant.
Can anyone be bailed out of jail?
Not all individuals are eligible for bail. The court considers several factors, such as the severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, flight risk, and community ties when determining eligibility for bail.
Do I get my money back after the case is over?
No, the bail bond fee paid to the bail bondsman is non-refundable, regardless of the case’s outcome.
What types of bail bonds are available?
There are different types of bail bonds, including cash bonds, surety bonds, property bonds, and immigration bonds, depending on the circumstances and the nature of the case.
Can I use collateral to secure a bail bond?
Yes, in some cases, bail bond companies may accept collateral, such as real estate, vehicles, or valuable assets, to secure the bail bond if the defendant is considered a higher risk.
Do bail bondsmen operate 24/7?
Yes, most reputable bail bond companies offer 24/7 services, ensuring they can assist you or your loved one in securing release from jail at any time of day or night.
Can I make payment arrangements for the bail bond fee?
Many bail bond companies offer payment plans or financing options to assist those who may have difficulty paying the full fee upfront.
Will using a bail bond affect my credit score?
Obtaining a bail bond typically does not affect your credit score, as bail bondsmen do not conduct credit checks when providing their services.
Can I bail someone out of jail in another state?
Yes, bail bond services are often available for out-of-state arrests, but the process may vary depending on the specific state’s laws.
What if the defendant is innocent? Can I get my money back?
Regardless of the defendant’s guilt or innocence, the bail bond fee is non-refundable, as it serves as payment for the bail bondsman’s services and the risk involved in providing the bond.
How long does it take to get someone released on bail?
The time it takes to release someone on bail varies depending on the jail’s processing procedures, the defendant’s specific case, and the bail bond paperwork. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few hours to several hours to secure release.