When a suspect is arrested and awaiting a court hearing, they may be released upon payment of an agreed sum of money to the court. This is known as bail, and the rate of release varies from state to state in the U. S. The amount of bail is what will be needed to release a person from jail, and is set according to a court-approved schedule.
Often, the defendant's friends and family members work with a bail bond agent to ensure the defendant's release just a few hours after bail has been set. The bail bond agent will pay the courts the full amount of the bond as agreed, and in return, they will receive a fee for their services. This fee includes the full amount of the confiscated bond, any reasonable expenses incurred by the bail bond agent in locating and delivering the defendant, and other related expenses. The California Department of Insurance (CDI) has regulated the bail bond business since 1937, and it is important to be aware of these regulations when considering using a bail bondsman's services.
Knowing the option of bail bonds is important to prevent your loved one from going to jail when they don't need it and to save yourself having to pay with your own money. If you are considering using a bail bondsman's services, it is important to find out what fees are associated with their services. You should contact the court where the case was filed for information on local bail for that court, as well as contact the bail bond agency directly for information on their fees. The commercial bond industry perpetuates unfair cash bond systems and relies on atrocious practices to protect its bottom line.
It is important to be aware of these practices when considering using a bail bondsman's services, as well as any other fees associated with their services.
