How To Find A Good Bail Bonds Agent
We don’t plan on ending up in trouble, but when we do we need to make sure that we find the right person to be our bail bondsman. Just look in the phonebook, there are tons of them, but you want someone you can rely on in your and your family’s time of need. What are some qualities that you want in a bail bondsman? Honesty, knowledge of the law, compassion and being forthright are qualities your bail bonds agent should possess.
Your bail bonds agent should understand the difference between the different crimes that landed you in trouble. As a defendant, there is a difference between being arrested for a DUI and being arrested for Breaking and Entering. Both have the possibility of carrying harsh sentences, but the details of each accused crime are different. Your Bail Bondsman must be able to communicate effectively the steps that you must take to be initially released from jail, if that is an option for your case. The Bail Bondsman should also be able to explain to your family and loved one’s what is necessary if bond is to be posted. Being arrested is a difficult time for your family as well as the defendant, and compassion and empathy are necessary skills to possess. The bail bond agent must understand that the process of bailing someone out of jail or posting an immigration bond can be time consuming, confusing and expensive.
Do not be afraid to ask your potential bonds agent important questions to make sure they have a solid understanding of the bail process. They should understand the difference between criminal bonds and immigration bonds and the types of bond the Judge can request. There are surety bonds, cash bail, property bonds, released on personal recognizance, unsecured personal bonds, secured personal bond, pre-trial release bonds and bail review. Once the bond is posted, the defendant can usually be released. It is imperative that the defendant fully understands the conditions of the bond. The bond acts as a promise that the defendant will show up at the court date appointed by the Judge. If someone other then the defendant posted the bail bond, that individual must understand the consequences if the defendant decides to ‘jump’ bail. The individual posting bond must also understand what can and cannot be used as collateral for the bond. These are all details that a reputable and responsible bail bond agent and bail bond agency will provide.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Know your rights, the bail bondman will probably charge you 10% of the bond, make sure you have discussed the rates and have an understanding of the fees. Bonds vary by state, as laws vary by state, the bail bonds agent or company needs to have a firm grasp of what is required in your state. Remember that you are dealing with a professional, and they should act accordingly, in your best interest.
Keep in mind that there are things the bail bonds agent will expect from their client, in order to make this entire process run smoothly. Being truthful is the main thing that is expected on both ends of this working relationship. Having to deal with bailing a loved one out is a frightening enough experience, make sure that you understand what to expect from your bail agent and what they expect from you. This will ensure a good working relationship that will benefit both parties.