You will note that the bail bonds industry is filled with so many myths and misconceptions. This is due to the fact that very few people know much about them. This is what has resulted in the general perceptions within the industry. The manner in which movies paint bail bondsmen has only worsened the situation. Here are a number of misconceptions you need to observe.
There is a misconception that bailsmen set their shops in dangerous locations. People also ten to believe that they can only be found in dirty and run-down buildings. You will realize that they are equally spread across the towns. You will find them tucked in corner offices due to the fact that they do not have so much space to operate. These offices have staff and will therefore be hardly dangerous for you to walk in. You will also find that there are no criminals lurking around these offices. You will also note that people assume that bondsmen are criminals. This is an undeserved reputation. You will find that they are usually licensed and even regulated. It is necessary to indicate that they are oftentimes supervised. People will often ignore the role played by these professionals in the criminal justice system. They will aim at making sure that you get out of prison soon.
There is a belief that one will not afford bail or even lose everything. You will find that it will hardly cost you much to get a bail. In fact, they can be paid in monthly installments. However, you will be required to explain your needs and situation to them. You will also learn of the misconception that nothing else needs to be done upon the bail being made. It is necessary for you to keep in mind that you will be required to report to court. This will purpose to ensure that you do not face tougher rules later on. You will also learn that the bondsman will keep between 10 and 20% of the value of the bail posted for his services. This means that not the entire amount will be returned. The price of this bonds will be the one to determine the bond fee.
You will note that there is a clear distinction between a bail and a bail bond. A bail is what you pay to be released from prison. If one can’t raise this, a bail bond will be posted by the bail bondsman. There is also a misconception that it is not regulated. You will need to understand that it is regulated as well as licensed.