If you are planning to post bail for someone using a bail bond, there are some facts that you should know before applying for a bond. Taking the time to review these facts will allow you to make an informed decision regarding whether or not bail bond services are the right choice for you.

#1: Bail Bonds Are A Type Of Loan

Bail bonds are a type of loan specifically designed to help people who need to post bail for a family member or other loved one. When obtaining a bail bond, the bondsman puts up the capital required to post bail for your loved one. If your loved one complies with all of the terms of their release, this money will be refunded to the bondsman by the court and you will not be responsible for paying off the balance. However, if your loved one fails to comply, you will be held responsible for repaying the total amount of the loan plus any fees. 

#2: Bail Bonds Can Be Revoked

Being released from jail on a bail bond does not guarantee that an individual will remain free. This is because both the court and the bondsman have the right to revoke someone's bond if they fail to live up to the terms of their release. For example, most bondsmen will prohibit individuals from traveling outside the county while out on bond. If an individual chooses to leave the county despite this restriction, their bond can be revoked and they will be taken back into police custody. Consequently, it is important to ensure your loved one fully understands and complies with the rules regarding their release.  

#3: Bail Bond Fees Are Non-Refundable 

When you apply for a bail bond, you will be asked to pay a fee that is equal to a small percentage of your loved one's bail. Many people mistakenly believe this fee is being used towards their loved one's bail and will be returned when the court releases the bail funds. This is not the case. While the amount of this fee is directly based on the bail amount, these funds are not applied to the bail amount. Instead, these funds are used to cover the cost of the bondsman's fee. Consequently, these funds will be completely non-refundable even if your loved one is ultimately cleared of the charges against them. The only way to receive your funds back is to pay the full bail amount in cash rather than obtaining a bond.

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