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What to Consider When Getting Bail Bonds in the City of College Park? – Guest Post
College Park, located in Fulton County, Georgia, has about 30,000 residents. Reports state that your chances of getting involved in a crime are one out of 52.
If you’ve been arrested for any reason and are waiting for your bail hearing, you may be wondering what to do next. One of the best options is to call a bail bond agent. A bail bond agent can help get you out of jail quickly and make the process much easier.
The following article will explain ten things to consider while getting bail bonds in the City of College Park.
What Are Bail Bonds?
When a person is arrested, they have the opportunity to post bail to be released until their court date. A judge’s bail is announced and is usually a percentage of the total bond amount.
If the defendant can’t afford to pay the bail amount, they can get help from a bail bondsman. Bail bond companies will post the bail on behalf of the defendant for a fee.
For example, if the bail is set at $5000, the bail bondsman will charge $500 to post the bond. The company will also require collateral, property, cash, or jewelry.
- How Much Will The Bail Bond Cost?
Bail bonds are not cheap. The cost can range from around ten percent of the bail amount to fifty percent.
Before you sign any paperwork, be sure to ask about all associated fees. There may also be a minimum fee charged, even if the bond is for a minimal amount.
The cost depends on the following factors:
-The severity of the crime
-The amount of bail
-Your financial situation
Some companies for bail bonds in the City of College Park offer payment plans, making the process more affordable. You may also use a co-signer to help with the cost. A co-signer is someone who agrees to be responsible for the bail bond if you do not show up for your court date.
If you cannot pay the total amount, ask about a payment plan or co-signer options.
- How Long Will It Take to Process The Bail Bond?
Once you’ve agreed to terms and signed the paperwork, the bail bond company will post the bond with the court. The process takes a few hours but can take up to a day.
Be sure to ask how long it will take before you’re released from jail.
In some situations, the defendant may be released on their recognizance. It means they don’t have to post bail and will be released once they’ve been arraigned in court.
If the defendant fails to get released on their recognizance, they must go through the normal bail process.
- Will Collateral Be Needed?
Collateral means that you’ve put up something of value to guarantee that you will show up for your court date.
The bail bond company may require collateral before they post the bond. The amount of collateral needed will depend on the amount of the bail and the perceived risk of a defendant not showing up for their court date.
If you can’t provide collateral, some companies may still post the bond but charge a higher premium. Be sure to ask about collateral before you sign any paperwork.
- Can The Defendant Leave The State While Out On Bail?
The crime rate in College Park, GA, is 221.10 percent higher than the national average. Hence, it is essential to consider all aspects of the city before deciding.
The defendant may leave the state while out on bail, but it depends on the judge’s order. If the defendant cannot leave the state, they must surrender their passport to the bail bond company.
If you’re planning on traveling, be sure to check with the bail bond company first.
- Are There Restrictions On Who Can Bail The Defendant Out Of Jail?
In most cases, anyone over 18 can bail someone out of jail. The bail bond company will require identification and ask for your relationship with the defendant.
You may be asked to provide collateral if you’re not related to the defendant.
- What Is The Defendant’s Responsibility While Out On Bail?
The defendant must show up for all their court dates. If they miss a date, the bail bond company may revoke the bond and put the defendant back in jail.
They must also obey all laws and not commit any new crimes.
- How Long Will The Bail Bond Be In Effect?
The bail bond is usually good for one year. If the defendant does not show up for their court date, the bail bond company may pursue legal action to recover the money they paid for the bond.
Conclusion
Bail bonds in College Park can be a great way to get your loved one out of jail, but there are some things you need to consider before you sign anything. Ensure you understand the process and the risks involved, and always work with a reputable bail bond company.