No one wants to pick up the phone and hear the dreaded, “You have a collect call from…” Hearing that your loved one is in jail can make you want to run to the nearest bail bond so they can be released as soon as possible. However, before you make that call, there are some things you should know about bail bonds, first.
There is A Fee
Just like with any other type of loan, when you use the services of a bail bond, you will be required to pay a percentage upfront in order to have your loved one released. While the bondsman will cover the bulk of the court costs, your portion may be anywhere from 10 to 15 percent of the total amount of the bond.
You May Not Need A Bail Bond
Before you start searching for North Richland Hills bail bonds, you need to know the type of bond your loved one received, first. If the judge gave them a personal recognizance bond, this means that they will be released on good faith and there won’t be any money required to release them. Also, depending on what the charge is, there may just be a fine that needs to be paid in order for your loved one to be released.
You Are Responsible
Although you are only paying the bondsman a percentage of the total costs, this is a loan that is contingent upon your loved one showing up for court. If they do not appear in court, know that you may be held liable for the total amount of the bond.
Before you start searching for North Richland Hills bail bonds, make sure that the person you are trying to bail out is worth it. Remember, you are essentially accepting responsibility for them, so keep that in mind, as well.
