Personal jewelry represents another commonly used form of collateral. The value of individual items such as rings, broaches, or necklaces can be difficult to ascertain without a professional assessment. Some bond agencies are therefore understandably cautious about accepting jewelry as collateral.
Bail bondsmen are generally not too picky about what kind of collateral they will accept. Real estate and houses are commonly put up in cases with a high bail requirement, but defendants can also use jewelry, stocks, bonds, and other investments and valuables.
Ankle monitors may also be a condition for getting a reduced bail amount. By agreeing to wear one, an individual assures the court of their commitment to staying in the area and not fleeing. This can increase their chances of receiving a lower bail amount or even having no bail at all.
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.
The collateral is usually preferred to be liquid, such as an irrevocable letter of credit, but some sureties will also take other pieces of collateral, such as certain equipment or even real property. A Collateral Bond is different when used in the context of a surety bond.
Valuable personal belongings such as jewelry, artwork, and collectibles can also be used as bail collateral. These items are often easier to liquidate than larger assets like homes or vehicles, making them a more appealing option for some.
It's like insurance; if the defendant fails to appear in court, the bail bond company can claim the collateral to recover their losses. This collateral can take many forms, typically including assets like real estate, cars, jewellery, or any other items of significant value.