10 Tips for Choosing A Reputable Bail Bondsman Check Reviews and Testimonials. Ask for Recommendations. Understand the Fees and Charges. Availability and Accessibility. Experience in the Local Legal System. Collateral and Payment Plans. Ask About the Timeline. Trust Your Instincts.
The bail bond agent will need you to sign some paperwork in order for you to secure their services. This usually means paying an amount to the agent, usually a percentage of the total bail amount, and signing off on any collateral for the bond.
If the defendant fulfills their obligation to appear in court, the bail bond company recovers the full amount of the bond. Conversely, if the defendant fails to appear, the bail bond company loses this amount, and the defendant may be liable for the financial loss incurred by the bond company.
If the felonies on your record have been adjudicated by a court, in other words, not mere arrests where the cases have been dropped or dismissed by the prosecutors, then you will be prevented from qualifying for a license as a bail bond agent.
APPLYING FOR A BAIL BOND LICENSE Eligibility for a license is limited to persons who have not previously been convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to, any felony, or to a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or dishonesty.
Background Check and Disqualifications A clean background is crucial. You cannot have any felony convictions. If you have a felony on your record, you are automatically disqualified from becoming a bail bonds agent.