What Are My Responsibilities Should I Bail Someone Out Of Jail?
If you make the decision to bail someone out of jail, you are taking on a very important role, known as the Indemnitor. In essence, this means that you are responsible for ensuring that the bailed person presents themselves at court. Failure to do so would mean that you are financially responsible for the entire sum of the bond.
In most cases, this is unlikely to happen, but it is important that you understand the potential risks you are exposing yourself to.
How Much Will A Bail Bond Cost?
Each case is different but in general, the cost of bail is regulated by the department of insurance and stands at 10% of the amount ordered by the court. There may be the option of a lower rate, contact us for further details and options.
What Payment Options Are Accepted?
We aim to make the process as easy as possible, so we accept Cash, Credit and Debit Cards, Checks, and even Bitcoin.
Do You Offer The Option Of Payment Plans?
We understand that unexpected situations can cause financial difficulties. That is why we offer some payment plans, to assist our clients. Give us a call to discuss the options. In certain circumstances, there may even be the option of no money down and small monthly repayments.
What is Collateral?
Collateral is basically an alternative to money. This could be a diamond ring, a lien on your property, or even the pink slip of your vehicle. The purpose of collateral is as a guarantee in case the bail is forfeited.
When Will My Collateral Be Returned?
The collateral is a guarantee for the Bail Bondsman in the case of future problems. Once the Bail bondsman receives a discharge from the court of their responsibilities, the collateral will be returned immediately.
What Is Bail Forfeiture?
If the defendant fails to turn up to court, then unless that person can be tracked down within 180 days by the bail bondsman the full amount of the bond must be paid. This is known as Bail Forfeiture.
How Can I Get In Contact With A Bail Bondsman Quickly?
We have experienced and understanding Bail Bondsmen available 24 hours a day seven days a week. Simply call free on 310-543-9700 to speak to an expert instantly. We have agents standing by in Torrance right now!
Is The Bail Bond Fee Refundable?
Once the bail bond fee has been paid then, unfortunately, it is non-refundable. The work would have been completed and even if it subsequently transpires that the defendant had been taken into jail incorrectly, the money cannot be refunded.
What Is A Signature Bond?
Certain people with an excellent credit history may qualify for a signature bond. This basically means that the Indemnitor has to sign to confirm that he is liable for the bail bond, and then the defendant can be released, into his or her custody.
How Long After Posting Bail Will It Take To Be Released From Jail?
This is something that is not in our hands and is very much dependent on the individual Jail. In the worst case scenario, it can take up to 24 hours, but some jails are more efficient than others and can release the defendant within an hour.
Is It A Legal Requirement To Use The Services Of A Bail Bondsman?
Absolutely not, anyone can deposit the full amount of the bail. All jails will have a written policy regarding which methods of payment are acceptable, and the limits placed on an individual check acceptance.
What Is A 1275 PC Motion?
The money used to post bail must not have been gained from criminal activity. If a Peace Officer, Prosecutor or Judge believes this to be the case, then a 1275 PC Motion can be filed. This can make obtaining bail significantly more difficult, but is not insurmountable.
Is Bail Guaranteed?
Although there is a constitutional right to bail, this is dependent on some factors. In the majority of cases, bail should be offered but in certain capital cases while the hearing will take place the granting of bail is unlikely. Capital cases include those where there is a possible sentence of the capital punishment or life incarceration, or where there is believed to be a significant risk that the defendant might flee if given bail.
Is Public Safety Taken Into Consideration When Making Decisions On Bail?
There are some reasons why bail can be refused, and they do include public safety.
- In Any Felony Case Where There Was Extreme Violence Used
- Sexual Assault Felony Cases On Another Individual
- If the court believes that upon release the defendant is likely to cause harm to others
- If the court has evidence that the defendant has previously threatened another with serious violence of death
How Is The Amount Of Bail Set?
The final decision regarding the amount of bail set is at the sole discretion of the judge. However, the judge has to take certain things into consideration.
Bail is not designed as a punishment, but rather a tool to ensure the defendant appears at court.
When setting the bail amount, the judge must consider the defendant’s previous criminal record, the severity of the charge, and the probability of the defendant turning up at court for the hearing.
Consideration will also be given to the risk a defendant would pose to the victim or witnesses of the case.
How Long Does The Bail Bond Last?
The Bail Bond is valid for one year unless the case is dismissed, or the defendant is found guilty and returns to jail. After a year if the case is still in progress, the bail bond must be renewed.
What Happens If The Defendant Is Sentenced To Probation?
Once the defendant has appeared in court and been sentenced, the bail must be exonerated immediately.