Understanding and going through the bail bond system can often at times be confusing and even overwhelming, especially for those who are experiencing it for the very first time. To help simplify this process, Ajua Bail Bonds have collected a list of frequently asked questions about bail bonds where we hope to provide clear, straightforward answers to help you understand how bail bonds work and what to expect.
How Does a Bail Bond Work?
A bail bond is a type of surety bond provided by a bail bond agency through a bail bondsman, which is used to secure the release of a defendant from jail. As most bails are set pretty high, the finical commitment helps guarantee to the court that the defendant will appear for all their court dates.
How Does a Bail Bond Differ from Bail?
Bail is the amount set by the court to ensure that a defendant appears at their court dates. A bail bond, on the other hand, is a financial tool used when the defendant cannot afford to pay the full bail amount. The bail bond agency guarantees payment of the full bail amount should the defendant fail to appear in court.
How Much Does a Bail Bond Cost?
Typically, a bail bond service charges a premium of about 10% of the total bail amount. This fee is non-refundable, even if the case is dropped after the defendant is released.
What Happens if Someone Doesn’t Show Up in Court?
If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bail bond is forfeited. The bail bondsman then has the right to physically locate the defendant and take them to court. Depending on the jurisdiction, bail bondsmen may employ bounty hunters to track down the defendant.
Can the Bail Bond Fee Be Negotiated?
In most cases, the bail bond fee is set by state law and is not negotiable. It is important to be wary of any bail bond service that offers fees lower than the standard rate, as they may not be operating legally.
What is Collateral, and When is it Needed?
Collateral is something of value like a car, home, or jewelry that is used to secure the bail bond. It is typically required in cases where the bail amount is high, or there is a major risk of the defendant fleeing. If the defendant meets all their court obligations, the collateral is returned.
How Long Does it Take for Someone to Be Released After a Bail Bond is Posted?
The time it takes for a defendant to be released after a bail bond is posted can vary. It usually depends on the jail’s processing times and the specific charges. It can range from a few hours to over a day.
Can I Get My Money Back if the Person I Bailed Out Skips Court?
No, the premium paid to the bail bond service is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the case or if the defendant skips court. Additional legal actions and costs may ensue if the defendant does not appear in court.
Bail Bond Services in Clovis, Reedley, Sanger, Selma, Atwater, Los Banos, Merced, Visalia, Porterville, Tulare, Hanford, Corcoran, Lemoore & Greater Fresno, CA
Understanding the ins and outs of the bail bond process is helpful for anyone who finds themselves or their loved ones in need of these services. While these FAQ covers the basics, each case can have its unique circumstances, so it’s always recommended to consult directly with a bail bond service for specific advice and guidance. For quality bail bonds services, contact Ajua Bail Bonds today!
