A bond agent can help quickly get you or your loved one out of jail. This is because they have a detective of contacts within the legal system.
They can also provide a contract that guarantees the accused will attend all court proceedings. This means that you will not be liable should the defendant skip bail.
What to Expect
The courts require a certain amount of money – bail – to guarantee that the accused will appear for all hearings and trials. A bail bond agent can step in and post a bond for those without enough cash.
The bail agency will need the defendant’s full name, booking number, and a description of the charges they face. They will also need the name of the person they are repaying for the bond and any other relevant information.
A good bail bond agent will have developed relationships within the court system and can often get their clients out of jail more quickly than others. However, they will also need to be sure that the defendant will abide by all of the requirements in their contract. Failure to do so could result in the bail bondsman paying the court a hefty sum to cover the remaining balance.
Getting Bailed Out
Getting bailed out of jail is typically needed so the accused can keep their job, take care of children or prepare for court proceedings. Bail bond agents understand that it is not always easy to do all of these things in jail and can help by providing a way to bail someone out so they don’t have to stay in jail.
A bail agent will charge a fee, or “premium,” for this service. The premium is usually around 10% of the total bond amount and is not refundable. The bond company will also likely ask for some form of collateral. This collateral can be a home, car, or other personal property.
The bail bond company will write a contract that ensures that you (the indemnitor) fully understand that you are responsible for the defendant showing up for all court proceedings. If the defendant does not show up, the bond company will hire a bounty hunter to find them and bring them back to court.
Getting Help
The process may seem complex and confusing if you’ve never needed to bail a loved one out of jail. The good news is that reputable bail bonds Lancaster County PA agent can explain how it works and help you through each step.
Bondsmen, also known as bail agents, provide written agreements to courts promising to pay the total amount of a defendant’s bail if they fail to show up for their trial date. In return for their services, bail bond agents typically charge 10% of the total bail and additional service charges.
While the lifestyle portrayed on shows may be exciting, bail bondsman’s work is not for the faint of heart. It is serious business and a binding contract that makes the cosigner an indemnitor on the hook for any unpaid court fees. If you sign a bond, you cannot withdraw your agreement until the case is concluded. A revocation of the bond could result in arrest, fines, or other penalties.
Choosing the Right Bail Bondsman
It’s essential to shop around to find a reliable bondsman. Ask for referrals from previous clients and look for online reviews. Avoid working with a bond agent who has negative thoughts or isn’t responsive to calls.
A good bail bond agent will go to great lengths to ensure the defendant appears in court. This includes checking in on them on the day of their appearance and even physically taking them to the courthouse. A warrant is issued if the defendant fails to show up, and law enforcement will attempt to find them.
It’s also good to check that the bondsman you are considering has a clean legal record. You can search civil court records for cases involving the bondsman. Also, be sure to discuss their fee structure. Some bondsmen may charge an annual premium that lasts as long as the bond is in effect, while others offer a payment plan that aligns with your situation.