One of the most powerful statements of American doctrine is that every person is innocent until proven guilty. This belief is the center of our legal system and is particularly evident in the bail bond system. This process of allowing a tangible showing of good faith allows those arrested for various crimes to continue their lives while awaiting trail.
Jail bonds are not for every suspect or every crime. The legal system protects the rights of the general public as well as the suspect. The courts are backed by bond agents to ensure that those allowed to post bond are trustworthy and committed to the legal process. In many ways a bondsman is a safety net for both sides of the situation.
A bondsman is an agent for an insurance company that specializes in bail bonds. This agent is a professional that fully understands the law and the importance of upholding the process. Once the courts allow a person to post bail a bondsman will ensure their commitment to be present at all hearings and to follow restrictions set by the courts.
They typically charge an average fee of ten percent of the total bond. This fee compensates them for any time or effort involved in ensuring the suspect returns to court for appointed hearings. At any time the agent can revoke a bond if the person out on bond shows signs of leaving town or not making court dates.
There are some bail bonds that do not require a bail bondsman. Cash bonds can be managed by the suspect, but can tie up large sums of money that may be needed for other legal fees. Some courts will accept property bonds. This would entail a piece of property being signed over to the court as a sign of intent to follow the requirements of the court.
This type of bond can result in the loss of family homes or businesses. Utilizing a bail bond agent will keep cash reserves and valuable property available and protected. A bail bondsman can help with many different types of bail bonds. Bonds that are backed by an outside source instead of full cash value are called surety bonds. This type of service can be used on misdemeanor and felony bonds.
Felony bonds and criminal appeal bonds have significantly higher amounts and almost always require the backing of a bail bondsman. Federal and immigration bonds are also handled by these professionals. Both of these involve the federal government, making them more complicated and expensive. An experienced and full service bail bond office will be needed for these jail bonds.
A bail bondsman is a representative for what makes the American legal system strong and fair. These agents help suspects to continue to support their families and live a normal life while proving their innocence. Their service is based on commitment and suspicion. They back the financial commitment of the person arrested with the understanding that they are also protecting the general public.