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.
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.
Candidates should verify licensing requirements in their area. Gain experience and network within the community. Bail bonds agents and bounty hunters have very close business relationships. Most work for bounty hunters comes from bail bond companies tracking down fugitives who have missed court after posting bail.
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.
Be at least 18 years of age. Be a resident of California. Complete a minimum of 20 hours of approved prelicensing classroom study in subjects pertinent to the duties and responsibilities of a bail licensee, including, but not limited to, all laws and regulations related thereto, rights of the accused, and ethics.
The job can be stressful and emotionally taxing, as bounty hunters deal with criminals and sometimes tragic situations. It requires a strong mental and emotional constitution.
Like officers, bounty hunters should keep their license with them at all times while pursuing a fugitive. However, they are not allowed to pose as officers or even wear badges that may make them look like officers. Except in rare cases, a bounty hunter cannot forcibly enter your place of residence.
Be at least 18 years of age. Be a resident of California. Complete a minimum of 20 hours of approved prelicensing classroom study in subjects pertinent to the duties and responsibilities of a bail licensee, including, but not limited to, all laws and regulations related thereto, rights of the accused, and ethics.