Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Bail Bonds
The Bail Process
What is Bail?
Bail is a constitutional right afforded to Americans. Bail is a type of insurance provided to the courts to insure that the defendant appears in court.
Why Use A Bail Bondsman?
A bail bondsman is more affordable because you do not have to pay the whole amount of the bond yourself to get your loved one released from jail. Bail bondsmen also understand all of the laws applicable to bail bonding. If a defendant fails to appear for court the bondsman knows all of the steps to return the defendant back to court.
What do I need?
To bail someone out of jail, you will need the premium (generally 15% of the total bail amount), a qualified cosigner (who is financially responsible for the bail bond), and possibly some form of collateral. If you do not have the entire premium we have affordable payment plans.
What Are A Cosigner's Responsibilities?
As a cosigner you are responsible for ensuring that the defendant shows up for their scheduled court dates until their case is completed. If the defendant does not show up, you will be responsible for any fees that our company incurs returning the defendant to court or the whole amount of the bail bond if the defendant cannot be returned to court. You are not signing as to the innocence or guilt of the person.
Do I Have To Have Collateral?
Collateral is often not required, it depends on each individual situation. Please call us and we can let you know if you will need collateral.
Do I Get My Money Back?
The premium you pay is non-refundable. This is the fee charged by the bail bond company to post the full amount of bail with the jail or court to obtain the release of your loved one. If you are required to use any collateral (cash or property), it will be returned to you upon completion of the case.
If Defendant Misses Court, Does The Cosigner Pay The Whole Bond?
The cosigner is liable for the full amount of the bond if the defendant does not go to court. However, a failure to appear in court does not mean you will have to pay the full amount of the bond. If you notify us of the forfeiture and make arrangements to return the defendant to the court, you will only be liable for the actual expenses incurred by our company.
Can I Come Off The Bond At Any Time?
If after posting bail you feel that the defendant will not appear in court, you can call us and we will take you through the process of coming off the bond. You will not be responsible for the full amount of the bond, but you will be liable for expenses incurred by our company to return the defendant.
If Defendant Is Found Guilty, Does Cosigner Pay The Whole Bond?
No, you are only signing to guarantee that you will pay the premium and that the defendant will make all of their court appearances.
When Is The Bail Bond Released?
The court usually exonerates or releases the bail bond when one of four things happens: the charges are dropped, the case is dismissed, the defendant has been sentenced or the defendant has been returned to custody.