The Cash Bond
If the accused uses a cash bond he/she will not need a bail bondsman. The sum of money is returned when the defendant has appeared in court.
Collateral for Bonds
Collateral can be used to secure a bail bond; however, the majority of people don't need collateral. Vehicles and property are commonly offered as a means of collateral.
The Cost of Bail Bonds
A bail bond costs the equivalent of ten percent of the set bail amount. This service fee is a non-returnable sum of money earned by the bondsman. For example, if the set bail sum is $10,000 the bail bond cost will be $1,000.
Skipping Bail
If a defendant fails to appear in court, he or she has skipped bail. Someone who refuses to appear in court can be arrested and the posted bond will be forfeited.
How Long Will It Take to Be Released From Jail?
The length of time taken to be set free from jail depends on the case. If all runs smoothly the paperwork can be completed in thirty minutes and release could follow within the hour. Occasionally money issues can slow things down. However, local police stations are quite good at facilitating a release. On the other hand, county jails and larger jails tend to have a reputation for taking things a little slower.
The Role of the Bail Bondsman
A bail bondsman acts on behalf of the accused. The bondsman will secure the funds needed (the bail bond) to free them from jail. The bondsman will communicate with family and friends and gather everything needed to release the defendant from jail. The bail bondsman finances the bail bond for a ten percent fee. Doing this guarantees the person will present themselves in court.