Written By: Anthony Fiore
Mary and Jim were a happily married couple for ten years before disaster struck. Unfortunately, one night they were drinking a little too much wine and got into a terrible conflict over money issues. Jim, normally a passive and well-respected computer programmer, lost it and threatened to choke Mary, after throwing a chair in her direction. Their 9 year old daughter heard the argument, became scared, and called the police. As a result, Jim was arrested for spousal abuse and taken to jail. To be released, he would need $50,000 bail.
Mary desperately wanted him out of jail, as she was no longer frightened of him. Like most Americans, however, she didn't have the money to put up the $50,000 herself, so she had to find a Bail Bond company to help her out. Most states license bail bond companies as a way to ensure that a defendant will show up in court. If the defendant does not appear, the Bail Bond Company is on the hook for the $50,000. To assume this risk, Bail Bond companies charge a "premium" which is usually 10% of the bail amount. In this case, the premium would be $5000. This money belongs to the Bail Bond Company, no matter what the outcome of the court appearance is. Some Bail Bond companies offer discounts for certain categories of persons - like union members, veterans, or clients of attorneys who frequently refer to a particular Bail Bond Company. Discounts can sometimes result in 8% or 9% premiums, instead of the usual 10%.
Mary decided to call her attorney for a referral. He recommended one in particular which he liked because he had gotten good feedback from his clients. To check further, Mary reviewed the company's website and was impressed with the services offered.
She called and was immediately comfortable with the licensed agent she spoke with. The agent offered to meet with her immediately and arrange for Jim's release. She reassured Mary that their company would be with her and Jim every step of the way during this very trying, embarrassing, and difficult time.
Points to consider when picking your Bail Bond Company, should you ever need one, would include the following:
- 24 hr local and Nationwide Service. Do they have a licensed agent who can meet you immediately at a convenient location for you?
- Can they arrange bail by fax, if needed?
- Do you feel comfortable with the agent you speak with?
- Do they have a payment plan you can afford for the balance of your premium? (If you cannot afford the full premium payment up front)
- Do they allow premium payment with 0% interest or do they charge interest on your outstanding balance?
- Do they offer rebates or discounts on the premium amount?
- Do they offer referrals to community services to help you and your family put the pieces of your lives back together after jail release?
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