Bail Bonds Myths And Truths: How Bail Bonds Really Work And What You Need To Know About Them So You Don’t Get Burned
If you are arrested and jailed for a crime, then your life is essentially on hold unless you post bail. The bail system allows people to get out of jail to resume their normal life until their trial is over. However, common perceptions and movie portrayals make the bond system seem harsh or difficult. Here are some common myths about bail bonds and how bail bonds actually work.Bail Bonds Myths #1: You Automatically Qualify for Bail
The courts determine whether you qualify for bail. Not everyone is eligible for bail right away. Sometimes, people are held in custody until they meet certain conditions. If you have serious criminal charges, then you may not qualify for bail at all. The judge makes the final decision about whether and when you can get bail.
Bail Bonds Myths #2: The Bond Agency Negotiates Your Bond
The bond agency has no say on the amount of bail you are required to pay. That is up to the court. Judges use a bail schedule to determine the bail amount for your accused crime. However, the judge may adjust the bail based on certain factors in your case and your personal history.Bail Bonds Myths #3: You Must Pay the Entire Bail to Get Out
You can pay the whole bail on your own if you want. However, you don’t have to do this if you use a bail bond agency. You pay a percentage of your bail plus fees, and the bail agency then posts a surety bond aka a bail bond for thee whole bail requirement on your behalf. However, should you fail to appear in court, then you would have to pay the bail bond agency back for the entire bail amount.
Bail Bonds Myths #4: You Can Only Pay in Cash
While you can pay in cash if you want, you don’t have to do so. Bail agencies also accept credit cards and debit cards along with money orders and upon approval written checks. However, you may also be able to pay in installments. If you choose installments, you still must cover the entire cost of the bond fees regardless of the outcome of your case.You may also be able to make other arrangements as long as you cover at least the minimum fees. The bail bond agency makes the final decision on what they can accept.
Bail Bonds Myths #5: You Are Free to Do What You Want
Posting bail does not mean you are completely free to do what you want. First of all, you must show up for all court dates. You must be diligent and keep in touch with the courts. In some cases, the judge may put restrictions on your release. For example, you may not be allowed to travel outside the county or the state, go to bars and obviously not commit future offenses.
You may also be restricted from associating with certain people or going to certain other places until the conclusion of your trial. You could end up in jail again and be forced to pay your entire bail if you fail to meet these obligations.
Bail Bonds Myths #6: Your Service Fees Are Refunded After the Trial
When you purchase a bail bond, the bond agency charges you a fee that is set and regulated by state law. This fee is nonrefundable as it is an actual premium payment for a surety bond. Again, the state of Florida sets the limits and amounts of the fees for all bond companies in the state. The bond agency will spell out all of your obligations, payment requirements, and other conditions of your bail bond release.So in closing, many people have the wrong idea about how bail bond agencies work. However, the bail bond industry is highly regulated and must follow specific procedures and laws. We will work with you to help you post bail and get on with your life while you sort things out in court. If you or a loved one in Florida needs to post bail, contact us to get the process started at our office.
Call BailOption Today To Learn More About What Is Truth And What Is False About Bail Bonds At 1-800-524-0684.