After I entered the job force at 18, I had money problems for quite a number of years. I earned a decent income, but I lived paycheck to paycheck and just felt like I would never get ahead financially. One day, determined to get ahead, I decided to record every purchase I made for a month to find out just where my money was going. I learned a hard lesson that day that small purchases here and there throughout the month really add up. I committed to a much smaller budget and began stashing savings away. Then, I researched the world of investing and made a few strategic ones with some of my savings. I am now doing much better financially, and I want to help others who need it, so I am starting a blog. Come back often for money management tips and tricks explained simply!
When a loved one goes to jail, it can be a dramatic experience for both the defendant, the family, and friends. As a result, getting the arrested individual out of jail becomes an urgent task. However, in most cases, raising the full bail amount can be a tall order, especially on short notice. Hence, the only alternative is to use a licensed bail bond agent to cover the bail amount.
However, using any bail bondsman you come across is ill-advised. Hence, it is essential to conduct some considerations before selecting one. Here are five tips on how to find a reliable bail bond agent.
1. Get Recommendations from Your Lawyer
If you don't know any reliable licensed bail bondsmen, you should ask your lawyer to recommend a reliable one. As a result of dealing with many arrestees, lawyers often deal with various bail bond agents on behalf of their clients. Hence, they can recommend the licensed bail bondsmen they have worked with in the past who are reliable.
2. Make Use of Online Reviews
There are several online platforms where consumers review various businesses they have dealt with in the past. When looking for a reliable bail bondsman, these sites can provide numerous reviews of different bail bond agents in your area to help you find a good one. Key points to look for in the reviews include how quickly a bondsman posts bail, their rates, and the collateral they ask for in exchange for posting bail.
3. Flexibility in Payment Terms
Though the amount charged on a bail bond is not negotiable, it is still possible to negotiate payment terms. In most cases, licensed bail bond agencies ask for collateral as insurance if the arrested person decides to flee. However, some bail bond agencies accept payment via credit cards, or they are willing to negotiate a flexible payment plan. Additionally, if they agree to allow you to arrange a flexible payment plan, it would be great if there are no additional charges attached.
4. Make Sure It Is a Licensed Agency
Like any other business, a reliable bail bond agency should have a license to operate. The state's Department of Insurance issues the permits, and thus it is easy to confirm whether or not the bail bond agency you choose has a valid license to operate.
5. Quick Posting of Bail
The point of using a bail bondsman is to get the arrested individual out of jail as quickly as possible. Hence, when looking for a reliable bail bonds agency, it is advisable to ask how soon bail will get posted. The sooner an agency is willing to post the bail, the better.
For more information, contact a licensed bail bond agency in your area.
Share9 April 2021
