4 Surety Bail Bond Myths And Truths

If you get arrested, you can usually be released on bail. However, depending on the crime for which you are accused and many other factors, your bail may be expensive. Luckily, bail bond agents pay the bail for a small fee. If you would like to know more, check out these four bail bond myths and facts.

1. Myth: You Have to Repay the Whole Bail if You're Found Guilty

If you use a bail bonds person, you usually only have to repay the 10 percent fee they typically charge (10 percent of the total bail amount). Even if you are found guilty of the crime for which you were arrested, the bail money is returned to the bail bonds person after the hearing.

However, if you do not attend your hearing, the court will not reimburse the bail bond agent. At this point, the court may issue a bench warrant for your arrest.

2. Myth: You Don't Need Collateral nor a Cosigner

If you have a lot of collateral, you may be able to use it to post your own bail. However, you can also use collateral to secure a surety bail bond. The bail bond agent may require you to have a cosigner. This person agrees to repay the bail bond if you don't attend your hearing. This cosigner can revoke their agreement at any time. If they do, your bail bond is revoked, and you'll be sent back to jail.

3. Truth: You May Be Pursued by a Bounty Hunter

If you don't attend your hearing and/or the bail bond agent hears you've fled the city, state, or country, they may send someone to find you. This is often referred to as a "bounty hunter." They will find you and take you back to jail, so the bail bond agent can get back their money. At this point, you probably won't qualify for bail again, and don't expect to get another surety bail bond.

4. Truth: You Need to Follow Bail Conditions  

When you get released on bail, the court may set bail conditions. These commonly include:

  • Not leaving the state/country
  • Avoiding locations and people associated with the crime
  • Avoiding old friends who participated in crimes
  • Not drinking or doing drugs
  • Not having weapons

In addition, it's a good idea to get a job or keep your current job and work on making ties to the community. If you break these conditions, the court may revoke your bail. However, even if the court doesn't find out, the bail bond agent or your cosigner may revoke the bail.

Bail is a great way to get out of jail to await your hearing. Bail bond agents help make the process easier and more affordable. If you would like to know more about surety bail bonds, contact a bail bond agent in your area today.  


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