April 26, 2024

5 Tips for Choosing a Bail Bondsman

Having a loved one in jail can be stressful. Since you probably don’t have the money to pay for bail, you must work with a bail bonds company. A bail bond agent can get people out of jail by providing the court with an agreement to pay the full bail amount if the defendant doesn’t show up for their trial date.

Here are four tips you can use to find bail bonds near me Allentown PA.

1. Ask for Referrals

The defense attorney working on the case may be the best person to refer you to reputable bail guarantors since they often work closely with them. Their knowledge of legal matters and the bail bond process can help steer you in the right direction of which agencies have respectable reputations.

The court may also provide a list of recommended bail guarantors. Detention officers deal with bail bondsman daily, so they may also refer you to a reliable company.

2. Look at Online Reviews

Like you would do if looking for a restaurant to eat at or a plumber to hire, visiting online sites like Yelp can be helpful in recommendations for bail bond companies. Reviews from previous clients can give you an idea of how the company operates. Although you shouldn’t base your decision solely on what you read online, the reviews can help narrow your decision.

3. Research Licenses

Your state licensing department should have information on the licensing status of bail bond agencies. If there are complaints against the company, they are typically filed with the licensing department. Looking into this information can help ensure that you hire a trustworthy company.

4. Check Availablity

If you don’t want to spend even one night in jail, make sure your bond agency is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week.

5. Ask for Experience and Resources

State law determines bond company’s fees, but some agencies offer more flexible payment plans that have less of an impact on your wallet. You want to make sure you are working with a bond company that puts your needs first, understands your financial situation and provides you with the right solution.

Remember, when choosing a bail bond company to work with, you want one that will do more than just give you the funds to get out of jail. The company should also help you understand your bond requirements and be an indispensable part of your legal team.