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.
Bail bond agents must then explain the reason for the arrest and present a warrant signed by a judge.
The defendant can post their own bail or ask a family member or friend to post it. If the defendant uses a bond company, the company may require the defendant to have a co-signer (someone who will help the company find the defendant should they fail to appear).
And while some will tell you that you can't remain anonymous, the short answer is actually yes, you can. (But with one major consideration.) The Court is going to need a name and person to return the bond to once the court date has been successfully completed.
In some jurisdictions, the court may also allow you to post a property bond, which will use property that you own as collateral for your conditional release. Unfortunately, though, if your bail amount is high, you may not have the resources to post bail with the court on your own.
The Pretrial Integrity Act has changed how pretrial release works in North Carolina. If you're arrested for a serious felony, or if you already have pending charges, a judge must now set your bond. This means you might have to wait longer in custody before you can be released.
Bondsman's Role The bondsman assesses the defendant's eligibility for a bond, which may involve evaluating their criminal history, community ties, and likelihood to appear for court proceedings. Collateral, such as property or other assets, may be required to secure the bond.
They may work with the bail enforcement agents to capture a fugitive, and even use necessary but not excessive force depending on the state regulations. However, the bail bondsman cannot enter someone's property to arrest a fugitive without the owner's permission or a search warrant.