A bail bond is an amount of money that a bonds company pays to the court in exchange for the release of an accused defendant. In return, the defendant also referred to as an arrestee contractually agrees to show up to their court appearances.
The bail bond company posts a bond with the court in the full bail amount and that amount secures the accused person’s release.
To make sure the rest of the bail amount is not skipped out on, the accused will have to sign some paperwork, find a cosigner (also known as an indemnitor) or put up a collateral that has a value equal to or greater than the remaining bail amount.
Use these 5 tips to ensure you’re getting the best deal from a bail bonds company in Riverside County:
- Check reviews
Check reviews on Yelp, Google, and BBB to see what other people are saying about bail bonds companies in Riverside County. It’s a good idea to only look at companies that have 4-5 stars and have reviews that mention a great value
- Ask about their fees and discounts
Generally, a bail bonds company will charge a 10% fee for using their service. However, it’s always a good idea to read through the contract to make sure you aren’t unknowingly agreeing to pay hidden or annual fees. Justice Bail Bonds does how discounts and easy payment plans as well.
It’s never a bad idea to ask about discounts that they may offer to certain populations like members of the military and their families, law enforcement, healthcare workers, teachers, AARP members, and union members.
- Work with a lawyer
A great lawyer will be able to read through the contract and make sure you’re getting the best deal possible. In addition, they can make sure you’re not agreeing to any hidden or recurring fees.
- Don’t fall for cheap prices
It may seem like you’re getting a great deal when working with a bail bonds company that only charges a 1% fee up front, but they may be lowering their prices because they are new and looking to snag clients. In this case, you put yourself at risk of working with an inexperienced or illegal company that will ultimately cost you more money.
- Seek a bail waive or reduction
File a motion that says you are unable to afford the bail that has been set for you. If you have hard evidence that you are absolutely unable to pay, a judge may rule in your favor. Be careful with this option as it can sometimes work against you if you accidentally bring forth evidence against you in the bail hearing. Or the judge raises the bail to a higher amount. Anytime the issue of bail is opened for conversation the bail could be increased for a variety of reasons including prior convictions, other pending cases, unfiled cases, restraining orders and residency requirements.
Justice Bail Bonds is a female owned and operated bail bonds company in Riverside County with over 20-years of experience. Not only do they offer the lowest rates in Riverside County, but they have easy payment plans with no hidden fees. You can receive bail online or over the phone and they have bilingual bail agents that are available to meet in person at all jails and courts in Riverside County, California. They also offer discounts available for union members, active military, retired military and their families, law enforcement, homeowners, AARP members, teachers, doctors, and first responders. Don’t wait to work with the best bail bonds company in Riverside Country and call Justice Bail Bonds today!