What is a bail bond? A bail bond is a written promise that is signed by an accused person or defendant that if released from custody, that person will pay an amount that is decided by the court if the defendant fails to appear at the scheduled court proceedings for that case. A surety (someone who acts in the place of another) can also sign the bail bond. These bonds are called surety bonds, and are the most commonly used for people who get arrested for criminal offences and are released on bail.
Often the amount of bail is more than the accused person has on hand or can borrow, so they can hire a bail bond agent to procure the bail bond. If bail is not produced, the accused person must remain in jail or holding facility until the time of their hearing. If the case is not dismissed, they must return to jail to await further court proceedings.
The bail bond agent can utilize a bank, insurance company or other financial institution to promise the bail amount to the court in the event that the accused person does not attend their court dates. In California, bail bond agents must charge a 10% fee for their services. For example, if bail is set at $10,000, then the accused must pay the bail bond agent $1,000. This is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome.
Bail bond agents are professional, licensed and bonded, and quality bail bond agents are considerate of their client’s stressful situation. Many are available 24/7 and will come to the jail at any hour if needed to help speed the bail bond process up. They are able to get the bond to the court quickly, and allow the person to return home and resume their life until the time of their court hearing.
A good bail bond agent will offer financing for people who are unable to afford the 10% fee as well. Occasionally, if the bail is large, collateral will be required in order to procure the bail bond. This can be any property, such as a house, car, or boat. The accused will often involve family members or friends to help them with the bail bond process.