Getting arrested is a fairly common event in today’s world. Most people will likely have to contact a bail bonds provider at some point in their lives, either for themselves or a friend or family member. Unfortunately, unlike in Monopoly, there isn’t a “get out of jail free” card. There are, however, options to get bail bonds in San Diego for cheaper.
What Do Bail Bonds Providers Do?
When someone is arrested, they will most likely be given a bond amount to get out of jail while they wait for the resolution of their charges, whether that is a plea negotiation, trial, or dismissal. That bond amount is money paid to the court to ensure that individuals charged with crimes will appear in court for any proceedings that require their appearance. Bail bonds providers are the intermediary between the public and the court and play a critical role in the justice system.
The bond is often more than what people can pay upfront to the court, so the bail bonds providers can post the full amount while only charging a percentage to be paid to them. Anyone over the age of 18 can post bail, but it is important to note that whoever posts it is responsible for the charged individual to appear in court. Not appearing for court after posting bail has significant consequences both for the charged individual and the person who posted bail. The charged individual will have an arrest warrant issued and the bail that was paid is forfeited. If money or property was posted to a bail bonds provider in lieu of paying the bail upfront, then the provider can collect on the full amount or seize the property.
Additionally, most bail bonds providers can look up information such as whether someone is already in jail, the status of an arrest warrant, and the amount of the bond to help their clients make appropriate plans for themselves or their loved ones.
How to Find Bail Bonds for Less?
Coming up with cash unexpectedly is difficult for most people. Especially considering that bail costs are usually several thousand dollars. This is why bail bonds providers are so important. The bail bonds providers usually charge ten percent of the total bail amount owed. However, there are circumstances wherein a bail bonds provider may charge less than ten percent, as low as one percent. Several factors determine this including the type of charge, the state, county, or city where the charge was filed, and whether or not there is a co-signer.
Some bail bonds providers offer discounts, helping to make the cost more affordable. Many of the discounts include members of unions, armed forces, and AARP. Additional discounts may include if a co-signer is a homeowner or if there is a private attorney involved in the case. Many bail bonds providers also offer financing or payment plans on a sliding scale. In instances like these, income limits are taken into account before payment plans are decided on. Even rebates might be an option with some bail bonds providers. Rarely, some bail bonds providers may allow someone that is currently in jail a no down payment option, but the individual would have to pass a credit check and have a regular job.
Most bail bonds providers understand the important role that they play in the justice system and value reuniting families and helping people get out of jail. They work to make sure their clients receive discreet and efficient service. They are professionals who understand the system and the tools needed to help people in their times of need.
