While using the term “bounty hunter” is generally permitted in California, the preferred term is bail fugitive recovery agents. Bail fugitive recovery agents aim to catch fugitives who have skipped bail (or “skips”) and bring them back into the hands of law enforcement.
Nearly 12 million people live in the state of Ohio and the state allows for the licensing of bail bond agents. In Ohio, using the titles “bounty hunter” or “bail enforcement agent” is illegal and considered a first-degree misdemeanor. Repeat violators will be charged with a felony after three convictions.
In modern times, bounty hunters carry out arrests mostly of those who have skipped bail or whose bail has been revoked; but are often referred to as and typically prefer to be identified by more formal titles such as "bail enforcement agents" or "fugitive recovery agents".
In Ohio, laws governing bounty hunting can be found in Title 39, Chapter 3905 of the Ohio Code. In Ohio bounty hunters are known as surety bail bond agents.
Bounty hunters are effectively the enforcement arm of the private bail industry. They have several alternative job titles depending on the state, which include fugitive recovery agent, bail enforcement agent, bail recovery agent, surety recovery agent, skip tracer, and bail bond enforcer.
Authority of Bail Bond Agents Bail bond agents can carry firearms (like regular citizens) and make arrests in California. However, they do not have the same power as police officers to investigate crimes, enforce traffic laws, or cordon off specific areas.
Fugitive recovery agents are professionals who find and retrieve fugitives who didn't make an appearance in court. Bail bonds companies employ these agents to help enforce the conditions of the bail bonds contract. The bail bond system allows some defendants to avoid spending time in jail pending their trial.
So if you simply won't leave your home, the bounty hunter cannot force their way inside. They may, however, be able to contact local authorities to have you arrested. In some cases, bounty hunters may follow you to California from another state.
Steps to a Career as a Surety Bail Bond Agent in Ohio Complete the required training. Get a background check. Take and pass the surety bail bond agent examination. Apply for your license. Receive your license. Private Investigator/Private Detective. Process Server. Featured Bail Agents in Ohio.
Bail bond agents can carry firearms (like regular citizens) and make arrests in California. However, they do not have the same power as police officers to investigate crimes, enforce traffic laws, or cordon off specific areas.