What Exactly is a Bail Bond?

We hear about bail bonds, see them advertised in flashing lights on the side of the road, and watch TV shows that speak of them, but do you really know what a bail bond is and what it does? In today’s blog post, we’re going to take a look at what a bail bond is and how it can help you or a friend or family member get out jail fast.

What is a Bail Bond?

A bail bond is a type of insurance policy that is presented to the court, by a bail agent on behalf of a co-signer and the defendant. It secures the release of the defendant, and assures they will return for all court dates and appearances. Bail bonds are different than bail - bail must be paid in order for the defendant to be released, but there are multiple kinds of bail - including cash bail, personal recognizance, and bail bonds (to name a few). Bail bondsman are backed by special insurance companies. If the defendant skips bail, they must pay the surety company. Additionally, the co-signer of the bail bond will be held liable and could lose any collateral used to purchase the bail bond.

How Do Bail Bonds Help Me?

When you work with a bail agent to obtain a bail bond for a defendant’s release, you’ll reap a couple of benefits. First, you only have to come up with a small percentage of the bail amount as opposed to the full amount in cash. Second, you’ll have the insight and expertise of an experienced bail agent as you work to get your loved one out of jail. Third, you won’t have to go to the jail yourself - the bail bondsman will go to the jail, file the paperwork, and get your friend or family member out of jail.