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Bail bonds can be extremely helpful and allow you to make the best of a bad situation. If a loved one has ended up in jail and is due in court at some point, bail bonds can allow you and your loved one some relief from the stress. If you’d like to learn more about bail bonds and how to get the best deal, read on.
What Are Bail Bonds?
Before you go searching for the best deal on bail bonds, it’s important to understand what they are and how they work. When a person is arrested and suspected of a crime, they will go into custody and then await a court date. While the suspect awaits the court date, he or she can be released on bail.
Bail requires a specific fee set by the court. If this fee is paid and the suspect is released on bail, when the suspect appears in court, the money will be returned to the person who paid it.
When you can’t afford to pay the bail fee, a bail bonds agency could help. The agency pays the bail money by creating a contract between the agency and the person who requires the bail fee.
Who Is Entitled To Bail?
Any person who is suspected of committing a crime that is not a capital crime is entitled to bail. There may be instances where someone is denied bail based on the fact they could be a danger to the general public or deemed a flight risk. However, most suspects in the US are granted bail at varying costs.
How Do Bail Bonds Work?
When a suspect is arrested, they will be given a court date and bail amount. If the suspect is unable to pay the bail alone, they will often rely on family and friends. In certain circumstances, the suspect or family and friends of the suspect may turn to a bail bonds agency for help.
In order for this agreement to work, the suspect must commit to showing up at every court appearance. In the event that the suspect does not appear in court, the agency has the right to use a bounty hunter to find the suspect and return the suspect to court. When the suspect shows up in court, the money owed to the agency can be released.
However, if the suspect refuses to show up in court, the money will not be returned to the agency. In this instance, the agency will collect the collateral put up by the suspect or his/her family and friends. It’s in the best interests of the agency and the suspect for this not to happen.
The Steps To Getting a Bail Bond
When you require a bail bond, the first thing you need to do is seek out a reputable bail bonds agency. At Alana’s Bail Bonds, we’re happy to offer you affordable contracts that ensure your loved ones can spend time at home up until the court appearance. We’ll need details of the loved one in custody and where they are being held.
Once we have all the details we need, we’ll go through the paperwork with you. This is where we’ll discuss the collateral you want to use as payment in the event that your loved one skips bail. Once we’ve gone through this, we’ll come with you to the jail to post bail and your loved one can be released.
Getting The Best Deal On Your Bail Bond
When you know a bail bond is required, you shouldn’t just settle for the first deal thrown your way. Even with the stress of the situation, it’s important to get value for money and a trustworthy agent that you can rely on. Here are some ways you can make sure you get the best deal.
Contact Several Bail Bond Agencies
Do your research on local bail bond companies to compare their rates and recommendations. It’s also worth comparing services and what each service includes.
Look At Offers
There are some bail bond agencies that offer discounts for certain people. For example, veterans or members of certain organizations may be able to get better deals than the general public.
Reputation and Reviews
Whether good or bad, a company’s reputation will precede it. You won’t have to look far to find reviews. A simple online search should tell you everything you need to know.
Don’t Be Afraid To Negotiate
Don’t be fooled into thinking there’s no wiggle room when it comes to signing contracts. The payment plan for the bond or the collateral agreed upon can be negotiated.
Understand What You’re Signing
Although there may be a sense of urgency, it’s essential that you know exactly what you’re agreeing to. Take your time to read the contract before signing it.
Use a Co-Signer
The responsibility of taking on a bail bond alone can be a heavy one. It can help to find a co-signer that can ensure you get the best deal from your bond.
Experienced Agency
An experienced agency can make all the difference. When you make a deal with an agent who is an expert in the field, you can be sure you won’t be putting more than necessary on the line.
Navigating The Legal System
Posting bail is a legal process that requires someone with legal knowledge. Using a bail bonds specialist is one of the best ways you can ensure your loved one gets released between arrest and court appearance. At Alana’s Bail Bonds, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved one’s bail will be managed by a professional.
If you’d like to know more about our services or would like a quote, we’re happy to help. Contact us today and we’ll arrange a consultation to discuss your needs. Don’t let your loved one sit in jail when we can help to organize a release. You can reach us on 619-468-9333 and we’re available 24 hours a day.
