Having to purchase a bail bond is not something most people want to have to experience, but as mistakes can happen to anyone, it is a good idea to get some of your questions answered before you find yourself needing one. We are going to tell you some things you can expect when going to buy a bail bond, from what you will need to provide to what you will be asked to do afterward. If you need to bail someone out in the Houston area, ABC Bail Bonds is the most reliable bail bond service in Harris County. We have been around longer than anyone, and we are ready to help get your loved one released from jail, 24/7.
What Do You Need to Provide Your Bondsman?
The first thing you need to do when coming to a bail bondsman is answer some basic questions. At the very least, you need to be able to provide the first and last name of the arrestee, their date of birth, where they were arrested and the nature of their crime. Having this information ready will make the initial paperwork go faster. After verifying that a bond has been set by the court, your bondsman will make you an offer for the bail. You will typically be asked to pay about 10% of the total bail up front or be asked to provide a piece of property to cover the expense, such as real estate or a vehicle title.
How Does the Arrestee Actually Get Released?
After all necessary paperwork has been filled out and the bail bond agreement has been thoroughly explained, a bail bond agent will be sent to the jailhouse where the defendant is being held and they will post their bond. Family members can be present to actually take the arrestee home at the time of release.
What Happens After They Are Released?
The person who went to purchase the bail bond is essentially the co-signer of the bail bond. The co-signer acquires some responsibilities that must be carried out to honor their contract with the bondsman. Their main responsibility is to make sure the newly released defendant attends all court dates they are called to. They are also expected to make sure the defendant covers any additional legal fees that may come up. If these expectations are not met, a bondsman has the right to pursue legal action against the co-signer for breaking the contract.
ABC Bail Bonds: Guiding Houston Residents Through the Bond Process
The bail bond process can be confusing the first time you have to go through it. Many do not know what to even expect when trying to secure a loved one’s freedom, and that is totally okay. A good bondsman should be patient, understanding and considerate of the situation you are in. Jail time is scary; there should not be added stress when dealing with a bond agent. ABC Bail Bonds has been serving the greater Houston community for several decades, and we are committed to helping anyone that comes to us, no matter the charge. Call us at (713) 222-6222 or visit our website to get fast, affordable help. ABC is happy to walk you through the bail bonds process.