One really does not pay much attention to bail bond agents until he finds himself in a legal dilemma or behind bars. Hypothetically, you got into some trouble and got arrested as a result ended up in jail. The last thing you will do is confess when you are innocent or sit in jail. Now, to Tulsa Bail Bondsman release yourself from this hassle, you will approach the court. Here, you will get to know the cost of release that the judge has set which might be beyond your affordability, say $25,000. This is where the bail agent will step in for your rescue!
Who is a bail agent?
A bail agent is any person or corporation which will act as surety for a criminal defendant. A bail bondsman will pledge money or property instead of the defendant as a bail for his appearance to court. However, some collateral is to be secured with such a bail bondsman for its protection.
Even though banks, insurance companies and other similar institutions are usually the sureties on other types of contracts, they are reluctant in issuing a bond as it includes risk. So, a bail agency is an entity that helps you when everyone else has refused.
What does an agent do?
The purpose of a bond agent or company is to provide clients with a safe and efficient release from jail until their scheduled court date. Plus, a bonding company or agency has to guarantee the appearance of the defendant in court at a given time and place after the bail bond has issued. The bond protects the Government entity in whose court the defendant has to appear.
if the defendant fails to appear, the bond amount becomes payable, and is forfeited as a penalty by the surety insurer issuing the bond or court. Hence, bonds usually insist on collateral to protect the back of a bail bonds agency.
Should an agent be licensed and experienced?
In deciding which bail agency is the best for you, you can compare them by license status, experience, and their availability at any time. Hiring a more experienced company or agent is a better option as it will be a quicker release. Certainly, they will have more knowledge about the jail system and the paperwork involved. It is always reliable to deal only with a licensed bail bondsman employed with a licensed company as he will ask for collateral which should reserved in the authorized hands.
Do agents work for free?
A bail company will lend you a hand only if you pay a certain fee. This is usually billed by charging a percentage of the total bail amount. Most states charge about 10 per cent of the total amount. Sometimes, bail bond agencies offer no collateral bail bonds, but this is very rare as it is a big surety and everyone likes to protect their rights.