Law

What To Know Before You Hire a Bail Bondsman

Getting arrested is not the highlight of anyone’s day. If you or a loved one has been arrested, the first thing you want to do is get out of jail until your court date comes up. Often, you don’t even have to wait to see a judge. Jails have schedules of bail based on the crime for which you were arrested. Paying the bail in full will get you out and ready to defend your case, but if you can’t afford the full amount, you may choose to hire a bondsman who will pay 10 percent of your bail and provide a guarantee that you will appear at your court dates. Before you hire a bondsman, there are some things of which you should be aware.

Bonds Require Collateral

When you require Lancaster County bail bonds you’ll need to provide collateral. That could be your bank account, home, vehicle, even valuable jewelry. If you fail to appear at your court date you will forfeit the collateral. It’s one way that a bondsman ensures you’ll show up to court. Collateral is in addition to the cost of the bond, but you keep the collateral when you honor your legal obligations.

You Don’t Get Your Bond Money Back

One thing that bondsmen hear over and over is that clients didn’t realize they wouldn’t get their bondsman’s fee back if they were found innocent. While you may get your bail money back if you pay the court out-of-pocket and are found innocent, a bail bondsman provides a service, a service that costs money. It isn’t his concern whether you are found guilty or innocent, only that he is able to get you out of jail when you can’t afford the full bail amount. When you need to get home quickly, you are paying for the convenience of a bail bond.

Bondsmen Want To Help You

No matter your financial situation, it is worth it to talk to a bail bondsman. They want to find ways to work with you; it is their business after all. Some will work with you to create a payment plan or take unusual items as collateral. Make sure your choice is licensed in the state where you need the bond and that the agreement is clear, with no hidden fees.

When you understand how bonds work and how to find a legitimate bondsman, you’re well on your way to getting your life back on track.

Related posts

Calculate Sales Taxes In California

Rider Powell

What Should I Do If My Claim Is Denied?- Taking the Right Steps

Rider Powell

Will I Be Eligible For Unemployment Benefits While Receiving Workers Compensation?

Rider Powell