Being arrested is scary. Your brain is overloaded and there’s always plenty of advice to go around. However, it’s important to know how the bail bonds process works. Here are seven common myths that you shouldn’t believe.
# 1 – All bail must be paid to be released
A bail bond helps you make bail. When you have a bail bond, you pay a percentage to the bail bond company. Then, the bail bondsman pays the full amount that you need to make bail. In most cases, you can make bail for only a fraction of the total, court-ordered bond amount.
# 2 – You Must Have Cash to Make Bail
If you’re short on cash, there’s the possibility of using collateral. A car, motorcycle, recreational vehicle, jewelry, bank account, land or any other asset of value may count as collateral to secure a bail bond. Each bail bond company has their own rules and guidelines. You shouldn’t assume that you can’t secure a bail bond without talking about your options first.
#3 – Bail Bondsmen are Rough and Unprofessional
One of the top stereotypes about bail bondsmen is that they are unprofessional and “rough around the edges.” To work in bail bonds, you must undergo background testing, complete required training, and receive a state-issued license. Bail bondsmen are licensed professionals who understand how to do their job with professionalism and integrity.
#4 – A Bail Bond is the Same Amount as the Bond
Bail is posted on your behalf for part of the entire bond amount. The bail bond company pays the money on your behalf in exchange for a percentage fee of the total bond. Once you are released from jail, you must attend your court appearances. The bail bond company keeps the fee that you pay them, and the court returns the money to the bail bonds company.
# 5 – Bail Bondsmen Put Dangerous Criminals Back on the Streets
You have the right to be free on bond until you resolve your case through the courts. A bail bondsman doesn’t set the amount of bail — the court does. A bail bondsman helps people who already have a set bond pay the amount that the court orders.
# 6 – It is Better to Serve Your Jail Time Now
All jail time is not created equally. If you have a bail bond now, even if you plead guilty or you’re found guilty later, you can take care of your personal affairs before you begin a jail sentence. Securing a bail bond gives you time to prepare for a period of incarceration.
#7 – Bail Bondsmen Can Negotiate to Lower The Amount of Bond
Most courts have standard amounts of bail that they use for each type of offense. You can ask for the court to lower the amount of bond or change the conditions based on your individual circumstances. It’s up to you to negotiate the terms of your bond. A bail bondsman doesn’t negotiate on your behalf.
Bail Bonds With A-EZ Out
If you or a loved one has been arrested, A-EZ Out can help. We’re available 24/7 to post bail anywhere in Dallas, Tarrant, Denton, and Collin County. Our experienced bail bondsmen are dedicated to getting you out of jail and back to your life as soon as possible after an arrest. Call or visit our website to get in touch with a talented bail bondsman today!