Common Misconceptions About Getting Out on Bail

When someone is arrested and taken into police custody, they may be offered the option of getting out on bail. However, there are many misconceptions about this process that can lead to confusion or even more serious consequences. Understanding how bail works is crucial for anyone who has been arrested or knows someone who has been charged with a crime. In this blog post, we will discuss the common myths associated with posting bond, whether for yourself due to an arrest warrant or for another person. Let’s get started!

Call 317-876-9600 to Speak With Licensed Bail Bondsmen in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-876-9600 to Speak With Licensed Bail Bondsmen in Indianapolis Indiana

Understanding the Job of a Bail Bondsman

A bail bondsman, or bail bond company, is an individual or entity that provides a monetary guarantee to the court system in order to release someone who has been arrested and taken into custody. This money acts as a replacement for the person’s appearance at future court dates. The bail amount varies depending on the severity of the crime and other factors. Once the bail has been posted, the court will release the defendant into society with certain conditions until their next court appearance.

The Truth About Bail Bonds:

Bail Does Not Have to Be Paid in Full

One common misconception about bail is that people who are offered bail must pay for it in full, up front. However, this is not typically the case. Rather than having to find a large sum of money, those in need of bail can often pay a bail bondsman or company to arrange the release of their loved one. The fee that is paid to a bail bondsman or company is typically 10-20%, depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the crime.

You Probably Do Not Have to Go to Court

Another myth about getting out on bail is that it always requires an appearance in court. This isn’t necessarily true; depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances of the case, a defendant may be able to arrange for release without having to appear before a judge. In some cases, bail can also be posted online or over the phone.

You Are Not Admitting Guilt…Or Innocence

Finally, many people mistakenly believe that posting bail is an admission of guilt. In reality, bail simply serves as a guarantee that the defendant will appear in court when ordered to do so. It is not an indication of whether or not someone is guilty, and posting bail does not mean that the person will be automatically acquitted of all charges.

Bail Bond Companies Want to Help You

Understanding the realities of getting out on bail can help people who find themselves in this situation to make informed decisions. By working with a licensed and experienced Indianapolis bail bondsman, those charged with a crime can ensure that they meet all of the legal requirements and are released as quickly as possible.

Searching for a reputable and welcoming bail bond agency in Indianapolis Indiana? Look no further! Contact Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for 24 hour bail bond services in Indianapolis, Indiana you can trust. We also offer prearranged bail bond service for arrest warrants.

Related Posts:

What are Your Rights After Being Arrested?
A Review of Your Miranda Rights in Indiana
The Exceptions to Your Right to Bail

Things That Are Not True About Bail Bond Agents in Indiana

Media, literature, and old wives’ tales can take all the credit for creating an inaccurate perception about bail bondsmen and bail bonds. In fact, continue reading to learn the top misconceptions about bail bond agents in Indiana, and finally clear up all the false rumors and myths surrounding the industry in general.

Untrue Speculations About Bail Bondsmen and Bail Bonds

Bail Bondsmen are NOT Bounty Hunters. Sorry Boba Fett!
Bail Bondsmen are NOT Bounty Hunters. Sorry Boba Fett!

Bail Bond Agents are Bounty Hunters – FALSE

This is the most common misconception about bail bond agents. In the movies and on TV, bounty hunters are portrayed as hard-core street law enforcers that hunt down fugitives and bring them into custody. This is not what a bail bondsman does at all. A fugitive is anyone that has escaped incarceration, has an outstanding arrest warrant, or has missed a court date.  They are persons wanted by the law. 

A bounty hunter is someone that can seek out these fugitives and assist law enforcement in bringing them in; however, they are a separate working party that is not affiliated with police in any way. When they bring in a wanted person, they receive a bounty, or cash amount, for their services. This is how the bounty hunter business thrives.

Bail Bond agents work legally to obtain a release from jail for anyone incarcerated and eligible for bail. They are the underwriters that cover the entire bond amount handed down by the courts, while only charging a percentage of the fee to the defendant in exchange for their services.  This charge is non-refundable but pays for exceptional and legal service to get out of jail.

Bail Bond Agents and Staff are Mean – FALSE

Why are bail bond agents portrayed as the mean guys on television? This is simply not true.  Depending on which state and county you live in, bail bond companies are often family owned and operated. This means they are one of the people, just like everyone else in the community. They are simply running a business the best way they can. Most bail bond agents are in the industry to help people because they enjoy reuniting friends and family, as well as, giving someone an opportunity for a fresh start. They are happy to be of service, and grateful for your business in most cases.

Bail Bond Agents Can Charge Whatever They Want – FALSE

All bail bond companies are legally obligated to comply with state and local ordinances regarding the cost of bail bond services. In most states, bail bondsmen are only allowed to charge between 10 and 15 percent of the total bond amount. If a bail bond company is advertising cheap bail bonds, they are lying. It will generally be 10% or 15% of the total bond, no more and no less. The cost of bail then only rises as the total bond amount rises.

Are you looking for fast and trusted bail bond services near you? Contact Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 to get out of jail in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients in over 30 counties with offices located in the Northern, Central and Southern parts of the state.

You Should Also Read:

My Friend Was Just Arrested. What Happens Next?
The Top Qualities of a Dependable Bail Bonds Company
How Long Do I Have to Stay in Jail if I Can’t Afford Bail?