An incarcerated criminal suspect is released after a bail bond agent puts up his own money. The funds will be used to secure the suspect’s release on bail. This pledge can be in cash or assets, and it is a sign of the suspect’s good faith that he will adhere to the bail agreement’s terms and appear in court when required. The bail is forfeited to the courts if the suspect does not follow the rules. In exchange for this service, the suspect agrees to pay a percentage of the total bail amount to the bondsman, which is typically around 10%.
Anyone interested in becoming a bail bond agent should check the state requirements in their area. To be licensed in some states, you must complete coursework and obtain insurance. A bail bond agent must be at least 18 years old.
Being a bail bond agent necessitates the purchase of insurance. Most agents lack the necessary capital to back up all of their clients at the same time if something goes wrong with more than one of them. Surety insurance ensures that obligations are met if clients fail to meet their obligations and vanish.
Many states require approximately 12 hours of coursework. The classes cover the legal ramifications of bail, the bail process, and most importantly, suspect rights and fair treatment. The coursework is usually followed a written exam. After passing the exam, the new bail bond agent must pay a licensing fee before starting business.
Many states demand that bail bond agents renew their licenses every year. Taking a refresher course or continuing education coursework is an example of this. In order for renewal to be valid, a licensing fee must also be paid.
Being a bail bond agent comes with a certain amount of risk. Because agents work with accused criminals, some of whom may have violent tendencies, physical risk can be a factor. Financial risk is obvious, and it can be reduced, but not eliminated, having adequate insurance coverage.
When suspects flee or otherwise abandon their commitments, many agents in the United States choose to work closely with bounty hunters. When a suspect violates a court agreement, the bail bond agent becomes liable to the court for the bail. A bounty hunter has been trained in the proper techniques for pursuing fugitives and returning them to the authorities in a safe manner. The bail bond agent pays the bounty hunter a portion of his commission in exchange for this service.