Starting a bail bondsman business is a very attractive venture especially if you understand the growth potential. There are no businesses in the industry that have captured a majority of the market share which means that it is still up for grabs.
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.
California regulates who can become a bail bond agent. The law requires individuals to meet various requirements to ensure safety and protect the public. Bail bond agents must be 18 years or older. Candidates must pass a background check and complete at least 20 hours of pre-licensing training.
As noted by the Professional Bail Agents Body of the US (PBUS,) the average bail bondsman rakes in $25, 000 to $50,000 each year. The body also noted that, in the major cities, some agents make hundreds of thousands of Dollars every year.
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.
It pays well Although you may not become rich over night while working as a bail bondsman, the earning potential in this career is great. For instance, a bail bondsman working as a part-time agent by just writing three or four bonds a month can make enough income to replace a full-time paying job.
Bail enforcement agents have the authority to arrest fugitives who have skipped bail but their jurisdiction is limited. They must operate within the legal framework of the state where the bail was granted and where they are attempting to apprehend the fugitive.
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.