Going to jail is no one's idea of a good time, but luckily, the legal system provides a process that can help people get out and return to their family ahead of the trial. If your offense is eligible for bail, this amount will likely be set by a local judge. This can be disheartening though if you don't have enough money in the bank to pay the bail. Luckily, the court system allows people to make use of a bail bonds company for this exact purpose. A bail bondsman can show up at the jail and help you post bail without actually having to pay the full amount. That might sound good, but it's important to know the details before you move forward. Read on to learn more.

Know What the Percentage Is

While the bail bonds company may be able to assist with your bail, you will likely have to pay a specific percentage of the total amount in order to get out. You'll then make regular payments to pay it off. The percentage you have to pay upfront will likely depend on a variety of different factors but this could include your lending history. Ask what the percentage you will owe is before you agree to have the bondsman show up at the jail.

Make Sure the Bail Bonds Service Is Licensed

Bail bond companies are heavily regulated and need to follow certain laws and procedures. This should include being properly licensed for the service. When arrested, you need to find a bail bonds service in the same state as your arrest. In some cases, certain bail bond companies may only be able to serve specific cities or counties. Make sure your bail bond service is properly licensed for the area where you are being held.

What's the Time Table Look Like?

Most bail bond companies advertise as being available 24/7, but this does not mean you will get out of jail immediately or as soon as the bondsman shows up. Different jails have different processing times for bail and the release of prisoners. Ask the bail bonds company you contact what the processing time looks like for the jail where you are being held in. Also, ask about how long it should take in total from the end of the phone call for them to get you out.

Contact a bail bonds company near you today for more information