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Four Tips For Using A Bail Bonds Service

by Gene Vasquez

No one ever wants to get the call that their loved one has been arrested. If your friend or family member is arrested, however, you may have to assist them by posting bail. Depending on the amount set by the court, you may not have enough money on hand to pay bail, at which point you can turn to a bail bonds service. Here are four tips to help you navigate bailing someone out of jail.

1. Be prepared to offer collateral

A bail bond is a type of loan. In exchange for fee and collateral, a bail bondsman posts bail for your loved one; when your loved one shows up to their court date, the bail is returned to the bondsman. You will have to give some kind of collateral to the bail bondsman as insurance against the possibility that your loved one may not show up to court. Collateral can come in the form of small valuables or the deed to your house or car.

2. Bring all the relevant information

In order to bail your loved one out, the bail bondsman will have to know which jail they're being held at. You can get this information ahead of time by calling your local police station and asking for the relevant details of your loved one's arrest.

3. Make sure your loved one shows up to court

It's crucial that your loved one shows up to their court date. If they fail to arrive, their bail will be forfeited and your bail bondsman will keep your collateral as payment for the defaulted bail bond. Since you want to retain ownership over your house, jewelry, or whatever else you put up as collateral, it's in your best interest to ensure that your loved one goes to court. Offer to give them a ride and facilitate their court appearance if necessary.

4. Turn your loved one in if they miss their court date

If your friend or family member misses their court date, their bail bond will be in default. However, according to About Bail, many court systems offer a 90-day grace period. If you bring your loved one to the police station during this time, they can let the court know that the person has been found. In this case, the bail may be returned and you can contact your bail bondsman to retrieve your collateral.

By posting bail for your loved one, you are doing them a huge favor. After all, no one wants to sit in jail to wait for their trial. These are just a few tips to help you use a bail bonds service for the first time.

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