If you’re wondering what a bail bond is, you’ve come to the right place. This article will look at the various types of bail bonds, their benefits, and ways to get one.
Alternatives to a bail bond
Bail bonds are not a novelty anymore. The industry has been criticized for demanding requirements, hidden fees, and exploitative practices. As a result, many defendants are behind bars. Thankfully, there are alternative forms of pretrial release to consider.
One of the most popular forms is the unsecured bond. A family member can post a portion of the defendant’s bail. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the family member is responsible for the rest of the bail.
Other alternative forms include supervised release and personal safety bonds. These offer lower-risk defendants an opportunity to work, stay at home, and continue their daily lives. It should be noted that these are often more expensive than traditional bail. Some of these alternatives are regulated by the state.
Cost of a Bail Bond
The cost of Luzerne county bail bonds can vary depending on the defendant’s criminal history and the crime’s severity. Bail is meant to ensure that the person will appear in court and follow the court’s rules.
If the defendant fails to appear, the total amount of the bond is forfeited. A bail bond agent can help you obtain this bond. These companies usually charge a percentage of the full bail amount but will also charge a non-refundable fee.
Alternatively, you can pay the bail directly. This is risky because it means you must come up with a large sum of cash. However, you may be able to use collateral to cover the bail. Collateral is usually in the form of property, such as a vehicle.
A surety bond is another standard method of paying bail. Often, a friend or family member of the defendant will purchase the bond. Typically, it costs about 10% of the total bail.
Co-Signer
A co-signer on a bail bond assumes the financial risk of the bond. In some instances, the co-signer will have to provide collateral. If the fugitive fails to show up for court, the bail bond is canceled. The co-signer is also vested in making sure that the defendant makes all of their court appearances.
If the co-signer needs to be sure about the fugitive’s intentions, they should contact the bond agent to discuss the matter. There are also other things to consider, such as the contract stipulations.
The best case scenario is when the co-signer is sure the person will make all their court appearances. However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks.
Co-signers are not only responsible for their full bail amount if the defendant fails to appear, but they are also on the hook for the recovery fee if the bond goes into forfeiture. As a result, the co-signer must be careful about their behavior.
Bounty Hunter
A bounty hunter is a legal authority that tracks down fugitives. They are often hired by bail bond companies or law enforcement agencies. Bounty hunters use surveillance and other methods to track down a criminal.
Most states allow bounty hunters to pursue fugitives in other states. This gives them several powers, including the right to break into a fugitive’s home without a warrant. It also allows them to arrest an offender at any time.
While the job is often portrayed as easy, bounty hunting does not come without a lot of work. Bounty hunters may have to build a website or conduct background checks using public databases. Sometimes, they must also be prepared for armed robbers and knife-wielding drug addicts.
Some bounty hunters are former law enforcement officers. Others are private investigators. No matter who they are, all bounty hunters must thoroughly know the criminal justice system.
To become a bounty hunter, you must first apply for a license. The requirements vary from state to state.