Bail bonds may seem somewhat mysterious to people, but that might be because not everyone has had the opportunity to use them. No one ever really expects to get a phone call from jail from a friend or loved one, but it's a good idea to be ready when they do call. Unfortunately, the bail bond industry seems to suffer from several common misconceptions that could prevent the people who need the help they offer from taking advantage of them. Read on and get straightened out about bail bonds.
Bail Bonds are for Seasoned Criminals
It's easy to get the wrong idea about bail bonds from billboards and advertisements that show tough-looking customers behind bars. However, bail bonds are not ideal for those with long criminal rap sheets or violent offenders. Bail bonds, rather, are aimed at first-time offenders, those charged with misdemeanors, and those accused of serious but non-violent crimes. Violent offenders are not offered bail in most cases and are not eligible for a bail bond either.
Bail Bonding Agencies Are Unsafe
You might think that bail bonding agencies are located in run-down and dangerous parts of town, but that is not the case. If the area was dangerous, it would be foolish to locate a business that commonly takes in cash for payments there. Instead, bail bonding agencies tend to be near the courthouse or correctional facilities for convenience's sake. They usually offer plenty of parking, are well-lit, and have clean and professional offices staffed with friendly people eager to help those in need.
Bail Bonds Take Advantage of People
Bail itself can be expensive, but bail bonds are only a fraction of the cost. Instead of taking advantage of defendants, they offer them a far less expensive alternative to pay the full cost of the bail. Bail bonds do the same job as bail does but they cost a lot less. Bail agencies are regulated by the state and charge a percentage of the full bail. The percentage they charge is set by the state and they must abide by very strict regulations and standards to stay in business. Bail bonding agents need to be licensed to practice their profession. Bail is not set by the bail agency—the judge sets the bail, and the bail agency asks customers to pay a small percentage of the bail to gain their freedom.
To find out more, phone a nearby bail agency such as Steele Boys Bail Bonds.
Share12 May 2022
When I began my first business selling sports equipment locally, I knew the sports-world well, and I knew how to run a business. One thing I did not know a lot about was the financial world. I had never applied for a loan in my life other than when I financed my car with the dealership in-house financing. My first application at a large bank was denied. I began looking into my other options, and I found that there were more lenders for new businesses than I realized. I applied at local credit unions, local banks, and other business lending services. I was able to secure more funding than I even expected, and my credit is just average. I created this blog to help other new business owners realize that there is funding out there. You just have to find it and apply! Don't give up on your dream.