If you have never had to search for bail bonds for a friend or family member before, you might not be overly familiar with the process or what will be expected of you. Therefore, you will want to take a few minutes to review the following details. This way, you will go into this process better prepared.

You May Need To Have Some Cash To Spend

Many people assume that a bail bondsman will pay all of the money to get your loved one out of jail. However, that usually is not the case. The majority of bail bondsmen will require a certain amount of money upfront before they will bail anyone out of jail. This usually ends up being a small percentage of the total bail amount, such as 10 percent for example. You will need this cash upfront in order to move forward with the process.

You Are Taking On A Lot Of Responsibility

When you go to a bail bondsman to get your friend or family out of jail, you are taking on a lot of responsibility. There is nothing wrong with this, it is just that you need to be prepared for what that means. If the individual released from jail does not check in with the bondsman as required, the bondsman might show up at your door looking for this individual. This can be an inconvenience or maybe even a little embarrassing. Then, if the individual does not show up for their court date, either intentionally or by mistake, you could become financially responsible for the entire amount of the bail.

You May Be Asked To Provide Collateral

If the bail amount is rather large, the bail bondsman may require a percentage of the bond in cash as well as collateral. The collateral will be something of value that the bondsman can take from you if the bond requirements are not met and the bail bond is retracted. The collateral could be the title to a boat, car, or truck that you own. It could even be the deed to your house. It is vital that you understand that any collateral you put up for the bond could be taken from you if you are not able to repay the failed bond in cash.

Make sure to read through all paperwork before you sign anything and ask questions. The bail bondsman will be happy to answer your questions because they want this deal to be a success for everyone involved. Contact a bail bonds service to learn more.