Three Questions To Ask When You're Speaking To A Bail Bonds Agency
When someone you know finds himself or herself in trouble with the law, you'll often receive a panicked phone call – perhaps even in the middle of the night. You'll be asked to contact a bail bonds agency to help the person secure bond to get out of jail. If you haven't previously found yourself in this role, you might feel a little uncertain about how to proceed, but a licensed and reputable bail bonds agency can guide you through the process. If you have time, it's effective to contact a couple agencies to evaluate which will provide the best help. Here are three questions that you should ask at this time.
How Soon Will You Get The Person Out Of Jail?
A bail bonds agency has to perform a number of tasks before your acquaintance can be released from custody, but you want to hire an agency that has the resources to get working on the person's case right away. Although you shouldn't expect that the agency's representative will be able to give you an absolutely concrete answer about the time the person will be released, experienced agencies can typically provide you with a fairly accurate estimate based on the time of the arrest, the nature of the crime and even the workings of the jail itself.
What Are My Responsibilities Concerning The Accused?
When you're arranging bond for someone who has been arrested, you're more than simply a middle person for this exchange. By signing the official paperwork, you're linked to the accused individual and the bail bonds agency. Asking the rep about your responsibilities is a way to evaluate the helpfulness of the agency and also consider whether you wish to move forward by assisting in this manner. Your responsibilities will typically include ensuring that the person will attend his or her court date, but it's also important to be clear that you'll be responsible for the bond amount if the person decides to flee.
Can I Get The Financial Terms In Writing?
Even though time is of the essence as your acquaintance will want to get released as soon as possible, don't make the mistake of rushing through hiring a bail bonds agency. Be sure that the representative will provide you with all the financial terms of your responsibility in writing. Be aware that if the accused flees and you cannot pay back the agency, you could have some of your assets seized. Be sure you fully understand what you're getting into before you move forward. Contact a bond agency, like A Bail Now Bail Bonds, Inc., to get started.