Many people do not have any experience with the bail bond industry. For the most part that is a good thing. The downside is that some people form their opinions about the industry or being a bail agent based on what they see in the movies.
It’s full of people that are rough, ready, raw, and easily confused with being a bounty hunter. Every industry has its share of shady characters but it seems the bail bond industry is especially misunderstood.
In this article, you’ll learn more about how the bail bond industry works by busting 6 common myths about being a bail bond agent. Reading this information will not only open your eyes to a rewarding industry but it will serve you well should you ever need bail bond services yourself.
1. All Braun and No Brains
This is a classic stereotype of people working in the industry. However, the truth is far different. The industry has changed a lot and the workforce is made up of intelligent and responsible people.
When you look through the specialist terminology used within the industry you can see that a bail bondsman has to understand many aspects of the law. Those that are successful in the industry are good communicators, and they are patient. People who need these services are often confused and stressed.
Rather than relying on muscle power, they rely on experience, good judgment, and full use of the law. For many people, this is a rewarding career as they see how the system effectively works to protect people and deliver justice.
2. Agents Pay Bail
It is common to confuse bail and bond as being the same thing. Bail agents do not pay the bail. This is paid for by the client.
Bail is a percentage of the bond that the court demands in exchange for being released from custody. The bond is paid for in full by the bail agent to the court.
When the client appears for their court hearing and proceedings can continue, then the bail agent receives a refund of their bond. The Bail agent keeps the bail as a charge for their services. It’s typical for bail to be about 10 percent of the bond with a minimum fee.
3. Bail Agent Must Be Armed
Not everyone in the bail industry has the same role. At some point, it may become clear that someone has violated the terms of their bail. In which case that person must be found and brought back to face their accusations in court.
Someone who performs this type of role may carry a firearm. They are called bail enforcers. They may use appropriate force to bring someone back to face the court.
However, a normal bail bondsman who is not involved in this aspect of the work need not be concerned with carrying a firearm. Especially if that is an aspect of the work that frightens them or with which they disagree.
4. Bail Agents Help Criminals
This all depends on your perspective. It is easy to take a limited view on the matter. The important thing to focus on is that the bail system is an important part of the established justice system which serves everybody.
This is a basic human right and is etched into the fabric of the U.S constitution. The timing of when someone qualifies for bail means that they have not yet been tried for anything. Therefore they are still innocent until proven guilty.
5. Bail Bond Agent Will Negotiate
As the bail agent appears to be involved in the bail transaction it could be misunderstood that they have some influence over the cost of the bond. The bottom line is that this is set by the court based on many circumstantial factors. The subsequent bail is a percentage of the bond.
There is nothing to be gained by trying to negotiate with the bail bondsman over the cost of the bail. When you realize that the bail is a small fraction of the bond, that helps you to appreciate the bail bond services. If you have questions about the bail bond and the cost, then the provider you use will be glad to help you understand the details.
6. Anyone Can Be a Bail Bondsman
Another common misconception is that anyone who fancies a go can be a bail bondsman. The industry is protected by the necessity of obtaining a license. To receive a license you must pass the mandatory exams.
Besides getting your license you will also need to pass all the legal checks that relate to your criminal history or previous offenses. These arrangements protect the industry and help to maintain its ethical standards.
Many bail agents choose to become part of a professional body that has its own professional standards. These professional bodies represent their members, help educate them and further develop their professional practice.
Always Get the Facts
In this article, you’ve read 6 myths about being a bail agent. As you’ve read the details in this article, no doubt your confidence and trust in the justice system have increased to some degree. Bail bond services improve the situation for all involved.
It avoids unnecessary incarceration, motivates the accused to attend court, and provides satisfying work for many people. Perhaps this is an industry you’d like to learn more about, especially how to get started working in a bail bond business. If so, you can check out this great advice here.