When someone is arrested and needs to be released from jail, they often rely on the services of a bail bondsman. Bail bondsmen are licensed professionals who help people post bail and get out of jail. However, many people are not aware of the full range of services that a bail bondsman can offer. Here are five key services that bail bondsmen provide and how they can help you or a loved one during a difficult time.
1) Bail Bonds
The most well-known service offered by bail bondsmen is the provision of bail bonds. At its core, a bail bond is a legally binding agreement forged between a defendant and a bail bondsman. This agreement serves as a lifeline, offering a path toward temporary freedom while awaiting trial. In this agreement, the bondsman commits to paying the full bail amount in the event that the defendant does not show up in court. In exchange for this service, the defendant or their co-signer pays a fee to the bail bondsman. Payment plans are often available to help the family of the incarcerated come up with payment, and bail bondsmen are usually open 24/7. Many bail bondsmen can also help arrange for transportation after release.
2) Surety Bonds
Another service that bail bondsmen provide is a surety bond. A surety bond is a guarantee that the defendant will fulfill a particular obligation, such as going to court or paying a financial penalty. In some cases, a surety bond may be required in addition to a bail bond, depending on the charges and the court’s requirements.
3) Pre-Trial Services
Before a defendant’s trial begins, bail bondsmen can also offer pre-trial services that can be extremely helpful. These services may include conducting background checks, gathering evidence, and assisting with legal paperwork. Bail bondsmen may also work with lawyers to negotiate plea deals or reduced charges.
4) Tracking and Recovery
If a defendant fails to appear in court while released on bail, a bail bondsman may be called upon to help track them down and bring them back into custody. This often involves working with a private investigator or a skip tracer or locating the person by their location data on a cellular device. If you violate the conditions of your bail, your bondsman has the authority to revoke your bail at any time, have you arrested, and return you to custody.
5) Immigration Bail Bonds
An immigration bail bond is similar to a regular bail bond but is specifically designed for non-citizens who are facing deportation. In these cases, the bail bondsman works with immigration authorities to secure the release of the defendant so that they can prepare for their deportation hearing.
From arranging bail bonds to helping with legal paperwork and recovery missions, bail bondsmen are always willing to help. By gaining a thorough understanding of the available services, you can empower yourself to make informed decisions on safeguarding the rights and freedom of both yourself and your loved ones. Ultimately, working with a bail bondsman can be an essential part of navigating the legal system and can help you through a difficult time with minimal stress and anxiety.
For more information, contact a bondsman near you.
