Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does a Bail Bond Cost?

Most bail bonding companies charge 10 to 15 percent of your bond amount. The law has strict regulations about the fee a bail bond agent can charge, so be wary of bail bond agents who offer lower rates. They may not be licensed.

Do You Need Collateral for a Bail Bond?

Most people are shocked to find out that not every Florida bail bonds agency requires collateral. ... Many bail bondsman will ask for collateral up front as a means of securing the bond. If the defendant finishes their case, that item will be returned to the person who posted it as soon as the court discharges the bond.

Who Decides the Bail Amount? 

The judges are responsible for setting the bail amount. Because many people want to be released from jail as soon as possible, and depending upon the defendant's date of arrest, the arrest process can take up to five days to appear in front of a judges.

What Happens if You Don't Appear in Court?

If the defendant fails to appear in court as scheduled, a warrant will be issued for their arrest. If they fail to reschedule their court date, the Indemnitor will be liable to pay the entire bail amount. This liability may also result in the loss of any collateral.

What is an Indemnitor?

The Indemnitor is an individual, usually a relative or friend, of an arrested person who pays the bail bond fee to the bonding agent and signs the bond agreement. The Indemnitor acts as a guarantor for the arrested person, being responsible for their appearance in court as obligated, as well as paying any fees or the entirety of the bail amount should they fail to appear in court.

Can I Leave The State On Bail Bond?

Even if the courts do grant you permission to leave the state, permission will also need to be obtained from the bail bondsman. You have a contractual obligation here, where you may not be allowed to leave your state until the court case is over. Check your terms and conditions for details

How can I pay for a bail bond?

Acceptable forms of payment are typically cash or credit card. In some cases, Pay Pal options may be available as well as payment by check. Depending upon the agent and location, payment plan options may be available.

What Do Bail Bonds Affect?

Paying bail can affect your credit score if you are not careful. If you put the full bail amount on credit card, pay the bail bond agent fees on credit card, or take out a personal loan then this can affect your credit score. Likewise, if you fail to pay the bail bond agency fees and your fees go to a debt collector, then you credit rating will be lowered. To avoid this, ensure to pay any fees as due and if posting bail out of your own pocket, make sure you have the money on hand should the defendant fail to appear in court. 

How long does it take to be released from jail?

Once a bail agent has been contacted, it usually takes less than an hour for the paperwork to be completed. However, release times vary from jail to jail and state to state. It could take as little as thirty minutes or as long as forty-eight hours to be released from jail.