Important Bail Bond FAQS to Review Before Hiring a Lawyer

If you are ever faced with a legal situation that requires you to bail a loved one or yourself out of jail, it is important to have a basic understanding of what to expect. Bailing a friend or loved one out of jail can be frustrating and stressful if you are not prepared, and can even come with some stiff penalties if you fail to uphold your end of the bargain. So, if you have to bail a loved one out of jail, or surrender to an arrest warrant, it is helpful to first read through some common questions and answers about the bail bond industry. Then you can make a call to a criminal defense lawyer to set up a plan after you or your loved one is released.

Continue reading to review the most frequently asked questions about bail bonds.

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How Much Does a Bail Bond Cost in Indiana?

This is one of the first questions a person asks when they need bail services. This fact is not surprising, considering it is a huge influence on whether or not bail is an option for someone. Currently in the state of Indiana, bail bond agencies are allowed to charge 10 to 15 percent of the total bond amount assigned by the court to the defendant. If a person were arrested on a minor drug possession charge, their bond could be set at around 5,000 dollars. This is just an example and not accurate. Bond amounts are calculated by examining a person’s criminal history, flight risk, and other variables. It is different for everyone.

Theoretically, if a person’s bond were five thousand dollars, a bail agent charging ten percent would require a fee of 500 dollars.  This ten or fifteen percent fee is non-refundable, but it allows a person to get out of jail before their scheduled court hearing without having to pay the entire $5,000 fine. If they fail to appear for court, they forfeit the rest of the bond amount and a warrant is issued for their arrest.  At that point, they are a repeat offender and may have trouble gaining bail for a second time. This leads into the next question.

Can a Bail Bond Company Refuse Service to Someone?

The answer to this dual question is yes, both ways.  Bail bond agents are a separate business, and can refuse their services to anyone, just as any other privately owned business can. The reason a bail bond company may refuse service to a person is mostly based on their likelihood to flee and not appear for their scheduled court hearings. On top of that, they take into consideration past criminal records and charges, just as the court does when they set a bond amount. If a person seems like a risky client, they will refuse service in order to protect themselves. 

Are Bail Bondsmen Bounty Hunters?

No, bail bond agents are not bounty hunters; especially the ones depicted on television. Bail bond agents are a legal service company that provides helpful assistance to people in need of bail. Bounty hunters are persons who work on their own volition to seek out fugitives and hand them over to the police. In some cases, a bail bondsman can hire a bounty hunter if one of their clients skips out on a court date. 

Do I Need a Lawyer to Obtain a Bail Bond?

A lawyer has the role of defending your criminal charges. Their job is to build an impactful defense on your behalf so you can avoid the maximum penalties for your suspected crimes. Although they can arrange bail for you, but they will not be your surety. What they can do in terms of bail is coordinate with your friends and family to arrange a bail bond agreement and act as your surety to get you out of jail. For this reason, you do not need a lawyer to post your bail, or even surrender to an arrest warrant. However, if you are turning yourself in for a warrant, it helps to have your lawyer on board, prior to doing so. They can help expedite the process, and even make the arrangements on your behalf.

Where to Get Trusted Legal Advice Regarding Your Recent Arrest and Criminal Charges in Indiana

Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a consultation with aggressive Indianapolis criminal defense attorney, David E. Lewis regarding your arrest and criminal charges. He will stop at nothing to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms after being charged with a crime in Central Indiana. With decades of hands-on experience, you can trust Attorney David E. Lewis to build you a strong and impactful defense against your criminal charges.

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