What to Know Before Signing a Bail Bond

If a close friend or a loved one is arrested and put in jail, you may feel inclined to secure a bail bond to help get them out. While it’s understandable that you want to help out someone you care about, it’s very important that you understand the obligations that come with signing a bail bond. Signing a bail bond isn’t as simple as just putting your signature on a piece of paper and your loved one is out of jail. There’s quite a bit more to the process. Here’s what you need to know before signing a bail bond:

How Bail Bonds Work

Bail bonds are similar to loans in that you put down a small percentage of the total amount and the bondsman or bail agent pays the remainder. You also need to provide enough collateral to make up for the difference in the event that the defendant does not show up for their court date. Collateral is similar to a form or credit or loan and can come in many forms, including your house, your car, jewelry, or other valuable assets.

How Bail Amount is Determined

In most cases, bail is set when the defendant makes the first court appearance. The judge will determine the bail amount on several factors, including the nature of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, the likelihood that the defendant will appear in court, the accused’s employment history, their tie to the community, and any outstanding warrants.

·       Not Everyone Can Co-Sign

In order to sign a bail bond, you have to meet certain criteria. This includes being a citizen of the U.S., having lived in the same area for a predetermined period of time, having stable employment, and having sufficient credit. Also, state laws may vary, so speak to a bail bonds expert in Conroe, TX.

·       You Can Draw Stipulations Before Signing
While you want to help your loved one out, you may be hesitant to sign a bail bond in fear that the individual may not act responsibly and return to their bad habits. You can make specific stipulations before signing, such as requiring the accused to attend a drug rehab program, attend therapy, or undergo a mental health evaluation.

·       You Can Cancel the Bond
If you feel uncomfortable or think that the bail will be threatened by the actions of the defendant, then you can speak with the bail bondsman and withdraw the bail.

·       You Are Assuming Responsibility
A bail bond is a legally binding document. When you sign a one, you are assuming full personal responsibility for the defendant to show up for each required court appearance. If the defendant does not appear, then you forfeit the amount you paid to get them out of jail. If the defendant cannot be located, you are legally responsible for paying the full amount of the bond originally set by the judge. Any assets you used to secure the bond will be sized by the court to satisfy the debt.

If you’re considering co-signing a bond, it’s encouraged to speak to a bail bonds expert in Conroe, TX.