While it may not be something that you’ve ever had to consider, it’s something that happens in the lives of thousands of people everywhere. Getting arrested is probably something that you’ve never had to experience, but it doesn’t require a lot of imagination to know that it’s a terrible experience for all involved. Even if you’re not the one arrested, you might be the one that gets the call to help a loved one that has been arrested.

If you’re the one that a dear friend or family member calls after they’ve been arrested, you’re sure to feel all the pressure and anxiety that comes from being their “go-to” person. You not only feel the need to get them out as quickly as possible, but you also feel the pressure of having to come up with the money needed to bail them out. However, if you’re like most people, coming up with a large sum of money isn’t an easy task.

Bail Bonds to the Rescue

If you ever find yourself in such a situation, perhaps your first call should be to a licensed bail bonds agent. A bail bonding agent will not only provide the money you need to get your loved one out of jail, but they can also act as an advocate on behalf of you and the defendant, providing you with key information and insight as to what’s happening throughout the entire process.

When someone is arrested, a judge issues a bail amount, which is the amount of money that needs to be paid in full in order for the defendant to be released from jail. Too high for the average person to pay in full all at once, bail can be paid by a bail bonding agent on the defendant’s behalf. In exchange for putting all the money up for the bail, the agent accepts a payment (approximately 10% of the bail amount) either from the defendant or from someone representing the defendant. As part of that written agreement, the defendant agrees to appear before a judge on the scheduled court date.

10% Too Much?

Because so many people live paycheck-to-paycheck, it’s quite possible that coming up with the 10% payment to the bail bonding agent could even be an issue. But don’t worry. In some cases, bonding companies can even arrange a simple and affordable payment plan. Because all cases are unique and require individual consideration, each bonding company holds the right to evaluate each case on its own merit. Just as cases vary, so do bonding companies and their eligibility requirements. As an additional safeguard, some agents may ask for a co-signer to underwrite a payment plan.

Value a Professional

Because each arrest and the circumstances surrounding it are unique, it’s important to find a bail bonding agent who can provide service that’s tailored to each individual case. Let’s face it, you probably haven’t had to bail many people out of jail in your lifetime, so why not lean on the knowledge and experience of someone who has? A licensed bonding agent can assist you in navigating the whole process, ensuring that you come through for your loved one when they need you the most.