How Do Bail Bonds Work?
After an arrest, paying bail is often the only way out of jail. Once bail has been posted, the defendant is free to go. However, they must return to face the judge on the appointed day. Bail is a payment of money and sometimes one's property to the court. However, a less expensive alternative may also be used. Find out more about that alternative, bail bonds, by reading below.
Bail for Less
Bail bonds cost less than regular bail because it offered by a third party not affiliated with the court system. However, bail bonding agencies can arrange a release just as quickly, if not quicker, than when paying the full amount of the bail.
The cost of a bail bond varies because each state sets its own guidelines for bail agencies to follow. However, the bail bond cost is a percentage of the full bail. If the bail bond company charges a 15% premium, then the price you pay is 15% of the cost of the bail as charged by the court. That presents those needing to bail someone out of jail with huge savings and no risk.
How They Work
Though things can vary from place to place, most bail bond agencies work with the court to arrange the release of a defendant once the bail bond is purchased. The bail bonding agency guarantees that the defendant will return to face the judge when their court date arrives. They do this by paying the court the full bail. When the case is over, the full bail cost is refunded to the bail agency. The premium paid to the bail bonding company is like a service charge to handle bail matters on the defendant's behalf. Bail premiums are not refundable.
Collateral Needed
In some cases, the bonding agency may require more than the payment of the bail bond premium. Those with criminal records, high bail costs, and those charged with serious crimes may also require the payment of collateral. Deeds and titles, electronic items, jewelry, and more can serve as collateral. The collateral is returned once the case is over, and the defendant has made all their appearances in court.
Bail bonds are an excellent and inexpensive way to get a loved one or friend out of jail. To find out more about the affordability and ease of bail bonds, speak to a bail bonds agency near you today.