Choosing a bail bond company is a big decision. You want to ensure you go with a licensed, experienced, and trustworthy company.
Here are some steps to help you find the right bail bonds company for your needs:
Get Referrals
Getting referrals from trusted sources is a great way to find bail bonds Schuylkill County PA. Ask your friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors if they have used a bail bond company and their experience.
Make sure also to check out the companies’ websites and look for reviews. It would help if you were also wary of companies offering meager fees as they may not have the same expertise and quality customer service as others.
Additionally, be sure to contact local sheriffs, police departments, and defense attorneys to get their opinion on the best bondsmen in your area. These individuals work with these companies all the time and will have a good understanding of who is performing well.
Check Their License
The state licensing process consists of taking classes, passing an exam, and earning your license to offer commercial bail bond services, which may vary depending on where you live. However, a high school diploma or equivalent is required in most cases. Owners must also be sponsored by a surety company and carry liability insurance to operate their business.
In addition, a bail bond company must be financially stable enough to cover the cost of paying the court for a defendant who skips their scheduled court dates. This is why owners need solid accounting software that tracks defendants and their responsibilities, including paying monthly premiums and meeting check-in requirements. These systems can also help to manage compliance with regulatory laws.
Compare Their Fees
When hiring a bail bond company, it is essential to compare their fees. A reputable company should provide a fee structure that suits your situation. For example, most companies charge a 10% fee based on the amount of the bail set by the judge.
Most bond agents will also require you or your loved one to put up some form of collateral to secure the bond. This could include a house, a car, or even a piece of jewelry. This is done in case the accused fails to attend court dates.
Bail bonds can be needed any time of the day, so make sure the company you hire is available 24/7. Likewise, they should be willing to answer any questions you have about the process and legalities of bailing someone out of jail.
Ask About Collateral
Collateral is a necessary part of most bail bonds. It can take the form of property, cash, or some other item of value easily liquidated if you or your loved one fails to appear in court.
The most common type of collateral is real estate. This includes homes and land, but it also may consist of cars or other vehicles as long as the title is in the defendant’s name. Typically, a bail bond company will not accept the property as collateral if it is being used as a rental or is under a mortgage.
Other types of collateral include stocks or other investments, but this is usually only accepted if the value far exceeds the bail amount. It is not recommended to use jewelry or antiques as collateral.
Get Everything in Writing
When you’re ready to sign a contract with a bail bond company, ensure you get everything in writing. This will include the terms and conditions of the agreement, the amount charged for the bail bond (usually 10%), and all other fees involved.
The best bail bond companies will be available to answer any questions you have twenty-four hours a day. They will also be able to explain the process in great detail so that you can feel confident in their ability to help you or your loved one.
They should also have various payment options, including cash and credit cards. In addition, they should always be licensed and provide proof of insurance coverage for their clients. This ensures they will be held responsible for ensuring the defendant attends court.
