Getting Started With Bail Bonding Services
When a loved one is facing time in jail after an arrest, it can be difficult to know where to turn to first. Fortunately, bail bond services offer help at this time of need and work to make things easier for everyone. Choosing the right bail bonding service can be confusing, though, since the choices can be numerous. Read on for some tips that will have you placing your burden in the hands of a competent and reassuring bail bonding agent in no time.
Get With An Attorney
In most cases, your loved one will need to hire an attorney to help them deal with the charges. Unfortunately, not everyone can be eligible for bail, and that is when an attorney should be brought in sooner rather than later. If the judge denies bail for your loved one, you will need to have an attorney advocate for your loved one's freedom. As a bonus, you can usually get some great referrals for local bonding services through the criminal law attorney. Attorneys work around bail bonding companies all the time, and you can put their experience to use by asking them who to trust. Also, bonding companies may be willing to reduce the fee for services if you are referred to them. Clients that are represented by private legal counsel may be seen as more stable and less of a risk when it comes to bail.
Stay Local With Your Bonding Agent
You will find most bonding services located conveniently near jails and courthouses, and it's important to use a local service. In some cases, the bonding agent has to appear at the jail to handle the bail payment. Look for bonding services that have been in business for many years – they are the ones who are most likely to have forged good relationships with jail personnel and court officials. That may come in handy when you want to act fast to get your loved one away from the often dangerous jail conditions.
Understand the Bail Agreement
Bail bonding works by guaranteeing to the court that the defendant will return to face future court dates. If they fail to do that, you, as the bail co-signer, might be responsible for the full bail payment – which might be thousands of dollars. Only bail a loved one out if you can ensure they will return to future court dates.
When a loved one needs help, turn to a bail bonding service in your area.
