It may not be readily apparent to most of us, but very few of those who are arrested spend time in jail while awaiting their trial and sentencing. It is because they are usually eligible to get bail. However, to be released, you need to pay the bail amount to the court, which can be forfeited if you violate the bail terms. When people do not have the money to post bail by themselves, they can approach a bail bond company. These companies will evaluate your case and risk profile and may agree to stand surety for you for a fee. Since you need a dependable and quick-acting bail bond company, selecting one becomes vital to getting an early release from jail on terms you can afford. Some vital questions, you need to ask a bail bond company before signing up;
Do They Operate In Your Location
Typically bail bond companies have a localized operation and deal with the court system they are familiar with. The first thing you should ask a bail bond company is whether it operates in your location. When you are under a lot of stress, it can be a good idea to start engaging with a company that operates all over the state, not a single town. A local bail company will typically be able to respond faster and post the bail to get you out of jail without delay.
What Do You Charge for the Bail Bond?
The bail bond company is a commercial venture that charges its clients fees to operate and make a profit. All bail bond companies like Castle Bail Bonds charge customers a percentage of the bail amount. The amount can vary from one company to another. According to Forbes, the bail bond guarantees you have something at stake and will not flee. While all bail bond companies prefer cash for the fee, you can use your assets as collateral. Regardless of how urgent your need for the bail bond is, you must ask the company about their rates so you know you can afford them. You can also ask them if they have any payment plan that makes the payment more affordable.
Do You Have a License?
You must make it a point to ask the bail bond company if they are licensed to operate in your state because, in most states, it is a regulated industry. If the company does not have a license, it will be operating illegally, which means that they will not be able to honor any agreement with you and arrange for the necessary bail bond. In all probability, you will be scammed and lose time, effort, and money.
Conclusion
Since you will want your release from prison to be as quick and smooth as possible, you need to check up on the credentials of the bail bond company. You can go online and read their reviews from customers and if they are a member of the Better Business Bureau. If your bail amount is high, be sure to ask them if they are amenable. Be wary of companies that guarantee a time by which you will be out of jail.