Emotions run high when a loved one has been arrested. There is fear of the unknown and stresses about how to post their bail. A Bail Bondsman in Fort Pierce FL can help put your mind at ease and help with posting bail. Keep reading for answers to frequently asked questions about the bail bond process.
What is a Bail Bond?
A judge will assign a bail amount that will allow a defendant to be released from jail. It is a promise that they will return to complete all required court obligations. If they fail to return, the bail amount is forfeited. The problem is that most people do not have significant excess cash laying around to post bail. That’s where a bail bond comes in. For a small fee, usually about 10% of the bail amount, a bail bondsman will post the bail on the defendant’s behalf.
What is Collateral?
Often, a bail bond will require collateral. Because the bail bondsman is taking the financial risk of a defendant failing to meet court obligations, they will expect other assets to be placed as collateral so that if they lose the bail amount, they will take possession of the collateral to recoup their losses. Collateral can vary based on the bail amount and bonding company, but assets such as vehicle titles, jewelry, boats, and real estate are all typical.
What Information is Needed?
Reputable bail bond companies are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Whenever there is an arrest, a bail bondsman is available to help as quickly as possible. When arranging a defendant’s release, the bonding company will need the inmate’s full name, bail amount, and the institution where they are being held. The person requesting bail will also need to provide personal identification documents, like a driver’s license, and information for a credit check.
How Long Does it Take?
The time between arrest and posting bail will vary based on a lot of factors including the volume of inmates seeking release at the time, the severity of the crime, and the speed at which all required documents can be completed, but if everything is in order, an inmate can be released in a matter of a several hours. For more questions or to speak with a Bail Bondsman in Fort Pierce FL, contact Port St. Lucie Bail Bonds.