Understanding The Role Of A Bail Bondsman And How They Can Help You
The idea of a bail bondsman dates back as far as criminal prosecution and court proceedings. The bail bondsman acts as surety and posts money or property as collateral for the release or bond of a person accused of a crime and jailed. They are typically very fast and can get you out on bond a few hours after the bond amount is set by the judge. They take a lot of risk in their business, and because of that, are often quick to react if you do not appear in court or appear to be fleeing from justice.
How Do You Hire a Bail Bondsman?
In most cases, you can call a local bondsman and time of day or night to get help but they may not be willing to bail you out unless you meet specific terms. Often you need to put some amount of the money for your bond down as cash. Many bondsmen require 10 to 20 percent of the bond value. This is not to protect them but rather to motivate you. You will not get that deposit back if you fail to appear in court.
Using A Home Or Property As Collateral
While you can not go to the judge and offer up your house as collateral to get out of jail, you can use it to secure a surety bond. The bondsman will attach the property, and if you fail to show up in court, they will take the house to cover the cost of the bail they will forfeit to the court. You must own the property to use it as collateral so the home you bought last year and still have a mortgage on is not an option.
Revocation of Your Bail
Keep in mind that while out on bail, you can be put back in jail by the bondsman. If they believe that you are at risk of fleeing or not appearing, they may choose to take you into custody and return you to jail. The bondsman then gets his money back, and you will stay in jail until your court date. The best way to keep this from happening is to stay in contact with the bondsman and stay out of trouble while you wait for your day in court. If you have your bail revoked by the bondsman or the judge, you will most likely not be able to get a new bond.
Completion of Your Bond
Once you have appeared before the judge and the case is settled, the bondsman will return your deposit or collateral. The court no longer holds them responsible for you so they get their money back from the court as well. At that point, the bond contract is completed and the bondsman will go on to the next case.
For more information, contact a business such as A A ABBA Bail Bonds.
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