Any phone call that informs you that somebody you love is under arrest will make your day cold. At that point, the majority are asking themselves about releasing them. How long will this take? What do we do next? It is at this point that a bail bondsman normally comes in. Although the concept of bail bond may be daunting, the procedure is not as complex as it appears.
A person who cannot afford to pay the entire sum of the bail so a bail bondsman assists a person to get out of jail. More to the point, they lead families to a confusing and heart-rending scenario. This article will give you an idea of what it may look like to work with a bail bondsman, starting with the first phone call and continuing to the court date, so you can proceed and do so with clarity and confidence.
Initial Meeting
It begins with a telephone call when the family contacts the bail bondsman. The bail agent will require basic information, such as the full name of the defendant, the place of detention, the reason, and the bail amount in case it is already set.
During this, you also have an opportunity to ask questions. The bail bondsman will be able to describe the process to a client in plain terms without pressuring or using complicated legal terms. The bondsman agent will explain to you the financials, schedule, and paperwork involved.
Knowledge of the Cost and Fees
The cost is one of the first questions that people want to know. While dealing with the bail bondman, you normally pay a percentage of the entire bail, and it usually is about 10 percent. This is a non-refundable fee that includes the service of posting a bail and bond maintenance.
Collateral might be necessary in other instances. This may be in the form of property and vehicles, among others, depending on the amount of bail and risk involved. The bondsman clarifies the reasons why the bail should have collateral and the way they secure it.
Paperwork and Agreements
Paperwork needs to be done before posting the bail. This involves arrangements that indicate obligations that both the accused and the individual who signs the bond have. These documents will be reviewed, and questions will be asked of the bail bondman.
With a bail bondsman, you do not have to guess on how to do the next thing, but you have someone who leads you through the process.
Post-Release Responsibilities
After the paperwork is done and the money is paid, the bail bondsman puts up bail with the court or jail. The time of release is dependent on the facility at the jail. In most instances, release occurs in a few hours, although it can be delayed.
Cooperation with a bail bondsman does not stop the moment the defendant gets out of jail. The defendant will be required to be present at all court proceedings and abide by any requirements of the court. This may involve travel limitations or frequent check-ins. The bail bondsman might also insist on periodic communication to make sure that everything has proceeded as planned.
