If you have been contacted by a friend or loved one for assistance in becoming bailed out of jail, you might automatically think about heading to the nearby bail bondsman. While this may be the best option for the person in jail, it is essential to make sure that you are well aware of all of the things you need to consider. This will ensure that you are making the best decision for yourself.
You Will Be On The Hook For The Money
You and you alone will be the responsible party for the full amount of the bail if the defendant, your friend or family member, does not go back to court or follow the rules set for him or her as a part of the release agreement. For example, if the bail was set at a very substantial amount and you used your home as collateral, your home could be at risk. If the defendant skips town and never goes to court, the bail bondsman will be looking at you for the money that he or she is owed. If you are not able to come up with the cash, whatever it is that you used as collateral can be taken from you in order to settle the debt.
You End Up Being A Contact Person
When the bail bondsman needs to get in touch with the defendant and he or she is unable to be reached, it is likely that you will start receiving phone calls. The reason is to encourage you to have the defendant call the bail bondsman. If that does not happen in a suitable amount of time, you might hear a knock at the door. The bail bondsman could obtain a warrant to search your home in case the defendant happens to be in there at the time they show up at your house. This usually only occurs when those who are out on bail are not going to their court hearings or checking in with the bondsman as required. You can help ensure that everything goes smoothly by reminding your friend or family member of their obligations.
Once you have decided that you want to go ahead and help your friend or loved one out, you will need to get in touch with a bail bondsman. Some are only open during certain business hours, while there may be others that provide assistance any time of the day or night.
