Being strapped for money can put anyone in an uncomfortable position. Not having the means to post bail could mean an extended period of time in jail, and perhaps for a charge where you are innocent. Guilty or not, what is one to do when they are arrested and unable to post bail based on their own finances? Here is some useful information about bail bonds, and how they can help you get out of a bind.
First off, what is a bail? In order to understand bail bonds, you need know what bail is. If you have ever been arrested, then certainly you are aware of the importance of posting bail if you want to get out of jail before your court date. Bail can be capital or property that is posted to a court. The capital or property deposited can be considered a "bribe" to release the defendant from jail until their court date. This service is deemed necessary by the court of law as a way to "guarantee" that the defendant will appear for their scheduled court date. Once the accused has posted bail, they are released. This service is not available in every country nor is it available for every crime.
What do bail bondsmen do? A bond agent has an agreement with the court. This agreement basically states that if the defendant does not show up to court, that they will take responsibility and pay the court. Their services do not go without a fee, however. Typically a bondsman will charge 10-15% of the full bail amount for their services. This fee is nonrefundable. Some states have a $100 minimum to use their services.
What is a surety? Also known as a "guarantee," this is the term used for the person that pledges to act in place of another person. In the case of bail bonds, a surety is whoever promises to pay the full bail amount, should the person they are representing not show up to their court date. Once the full amount is pledged by a surety, the defendant can expect to be released within a matter of hours.
Luckily, bail bond company locations are found spread throughout the United States. Most people are not financially ready to post bail on their own. Using a bail bond company is often the only choice someone has if they want to be released before their court date.
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