The Responsibilities Of A Bail Bondsman

The public perception of bail bondsmen is often somewhat skewed by “reality” television, leading the public to believe that the job of a bail bondsman is about chasing after clients who skip out on their court appointments. While those in the industry understand that this is far from the truth, we believe that it is better to help educate the public that might need our services about the responsibilities of the bail bondsman.

• Education: Most states require some type of pre-license education. This can range from a couple of hours to a couple of months depending on the state in which the bail bondsman resides. The point of this requirement is to educate potential bail bondsmen on the types of bonds that they might issue, the type of charges that might be brought against their defendant, and the duties, responsibilities and bail law. Some states also require annual continuing education in order to ensure that a bail bondsman is up to date with all of the most recent developments.
• Insurance: All bail bondsmen are required to carry insurance. By checking with the Department of Insurance in the state in question, you will be able to see which bail bond agents are legit. Some states even require a “trial” period with a temporary license before they will issue a permanent bail bondsman license.
• Build Up Funds: Most states require that a bail bond agent deposit their build up funds or BUF in an FDIC approved bank prior to opening their doors for business.
• Customer Service: A bail bondsman must always manage his customer service well. Though this is not customer service in the traditional form of the word, it is imperative that a bail bond agent remain in contact with the people that he has placed a bond for. Remind them of their court dates, their responsibilities, etc.
• Listen: In some ways, a bail bond agent is part friend, part counselor, part instructor. When you are placing a bond for someone, you’ll need to listen to their problems, and act as part counselor, or even just as an ear to vent to. Going to jail is certainly not the highlight of their life, and they want to talk about it. By listening to your client, you will often gain a better understanding of who they are as a person.

Despite popular public opinion, being a bail bondsman is not a glamorous job. It is one that requires quite a bit of dedication, customer service and compassion, as well as education. By choosing the right bail bondsman, you will ensure that you are treated in the best possible, and most professional, manner.