Bail Bondsman Charge in California
When someone gets arrested it can be a terrifying time for them and their loved ones. The process of getting them out of jail and back home can be long and expensive. This is why many people turn to a San Diego bail bondsman for help. This professional can get the accused out of jail and back to their family more quickly than if they waited for the case to be resolved in court. The average cost for a bail bond is 10% of the amount set by the court and these fees are typically non-refundable.
A bail bondsman is a private company that works on behalf of the accused to obtain a surety bond from a licensed insurance company. This bond is then submitted to the court on the defendant’s behalf and the fee, which can be cash or collateral, is paid to the bondsman. If the accused attends all their court appearances and fulfills all their bail conditions, the bondman will then return the money to the person who paid it.
Bail amounts are set by the courts and vary from county to county. This means that a certain crime committed in Orange County might warrant a much lower bail than a similar case in San Francisco. In addition, the charges that a defendant is facing might also be a factor in how much their bail is set at. A felony charge is usually more serious than a misdemeanor and will require higher bail.
How Much Does a Bail Bondsman Charge in California?
Most states, including California, regulate how much bail bondsmen can charge their clients. The fees are normally based on a percentage of the total amount of the bail set by the court and can include expenses such as bounty hunters, filing fees and paperwork costs. Bail bondsman who charge more than the regulated rate can be subject to penalties by the state.
To become a licensed bail agent in California, one must be 18 years old or older and a resident of the state. They must also pass an exam and have a criminal background check. In addition, the candidate must have a steady source of income as well as approved credit in order to qualify for the license. Individuals who receive SSI, welfare or Cal-works will not qualify for a bail bond as they will not be able to provide proof of income.
A san diego bail bondsman can offer a payment plan for those who cannot afford to pay the full amount upfront. This can be done monthly, bi-weekly or weekly depending on the client’s preference and will often be based on a percentage of the total bail bond amount. In addition, a 1% down payment option may be available for those with qualifying income and approved credit.
When considering using a bail bond agency, it is important to understand the fees involved so that you can choose the best option for you and your family. A qualified bail agent will be able to explain all of the details for you and answer any questions that you might have.