Called To Bail Someone Out? How To Decide If You Should
Although bail bonds are a widely known and generally understood component of the legal system, that doesn't mean that there aren't some situations where uncertainty may lead to misunderstandings or mistakes. The more that you understand the benefits of bonding out a loved one, the easier it will be for you to determine whether or not you want to take on that responsibility. Here's a look at a few of the things that you need to understand before you decide whether or not you're going to sign that bail bond agreement.
Is Your Loved One Employed?
One thing you should think about when you're trying to decide whether or not to co-sign a bail bond is whether or not the individual is employed. Someone who is employed full-time will be at risk of losing their job if they remain in jail, so it's often in their best interest to secure bail. Not only could losing their job lead to potentially losing their home, but they may also be unable to pay any court costs, fines, fees, or legal expenses. This can make an already bad situation much worse. Additionally, if the individual is gainfully employed, that shows some responsibility which can give you greater peace of mind that your collateral on the bail bond is secure.
Can He Or She Fight The Charges?
Another thing that you should consider when you're trying to decide whether or not to bail someone out of jail is whether or not they can fight the charges. If you know that your loved one is innocent, he or she is going to need to be able to formulate a solid defense against the charges. That means working with a skilled lawyer and being able to do the things necessary to build that case. This is extremely difficult to do when still incarcerated, so it's in their best interest to be released on bail. Secure their bail bond to help them be better able to work with their defense lawyer.
Is This A First Offense?
You may also want to think about the incarcerated individual's history. If they were arrested for a first offense and don't have any history of criminal activity, they will likely be a safer bet on a bail bond than a career criminal or someone who has faced multiple arrests for any reason. When you're dealing with someone who doesn't have any kind of criminal record, bailing them out shouldn't be such a worry.
Talk with a bail bondsman near you today for more help and to see about getting your loved one bailed out of jail.