Finding out that a loved one was arrested can be overwhelming. Your first priority is getting them out of jail. However, that can be tough to do if you are short on cash or unfamiliar with the legal system. Fortunately, bail bondsmen like A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds are here to help. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Does a Bail Bondsman Do?
A bail bondsman acts as a financial guarantor. They assist individuals who can’t afford their full bail amount in securing release from jail.
When someone is arrested, the court will set a bail amount. That price is based on their criminal history and the severity of the charges. However, bail amounts can be thousands or tens of thousands of dollars.
Instead of paying the full price upfront, you can work with a bail bonds company. You pay a percentage of the bail amount and the bondsman will provide a surety bond to the court. This guarantees that the defendant will appear at all required hearings.
The Six-Step Bail Process
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the bail process typically works:
1. Physical Arrest
After someone is arrested, they’re transported to jail.
2. Booking & Bail Hearing
Bond is set either by schedule or at first appearance. Some requests do not require a hearing and occasionally bail is denied, which may require additional hearings.
3. Call Us
Once you learn that your family member has been arrested, call A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds. Our team will track down your loved one and identify how much you need to pay to secure their release.
4. Contract and Payment
You next remit payment to the bond company. The premium payment is typically 10% to 15% of the total bail amount. For example, if bail is $5,000, and the bond company requires a 10% premium, you pay $500. The bondsman keeps the premium as their fee for getting your loved one released.
5. Post Bail
The bail bondsman then posts a surety bond with the court. The process can take two to three hours or more, depending on where your loved one is located, when the bond is posted, and the time of day.
6. Release
Your loved one will be released after the court processes the bond paperwork. The person who was bonded out of jail must attend all court dates. If they fail to appear for any hearings, the bond may be revoked, and the court may issue a warrant for their arrest. Non-compliance can also prevent your loved one from being bonded out again.
Why Work with a Bail Bondsman?
A bail bondsman helps arrested individuals regain their freedom while the legal system investigates the charges against them. If you or a loved one needs help posting bail, the trusted bond team at A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds can make all the difference. Working with our reputable bond agency reduces your out-of-pocket expenses and can get your loved one out faster.
