When a loved one is arrested, it can throw your life in disarray. Getting them out of jail, if at all possible, is the first step a lot of family members want to take. It is easier for a criminal defendant to assist in their own defense – not to mention work to pay for said defense if they are no longer incarcerated. Unfortunately, raising the money to pay off a bail can be difficult if not downright impossible. This is where bail bondsmen come in.
A bail bondsman will post bail for you, usually for a small percentage of the bail itself. They then have the responsibility of making sure you appear in court, and coming after you if you do not. When searching for a bondsman, it is best to look for experience. A company that knows what they are doing is a lot less likely to make mistakes with your paperwork and will be familiar with the court system and how to get your loved one of our jail as quickly as possible.
You also want someone trustworthy and reliable. Beware of scammer companies on the internet claiming to be a bondsman, taking your money, and then doing absolutely nothing. Make sure your company is local – if you are getting bail bonds in Douglasville, GA, then they should have a physical office in Douglasville or one of the neighboring communities.
If you already have a criminal defense attorney picked out, he or she will probably be able to refer you to a local bondsman with a good reputation. It is also a good idea to try to do a little bit of research on the company. Googling the companies name with the word “complaints” after it might bring up some information needed to make your decision. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau.
Finally, look for a company that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Even if you are calling on a Wednesday afternoon, having the staff available to answer the phones around the clock is a good indication that you are not dealing with a small, fly by night operation.
