When an individual is arrested, he may have the option to post bail in exchange for his release. If he or a family member cannot procure the funds, he may turn to a bail bond agent to post his bond, in exchange for a fee of about 10 percent of the total bail and a guarantee that the defendant will appear in court. In this industry, empathy is key -- successful bail bondsmen are not only licensed, trained and insured, they are prepared to deal with clients who are under a good deal of stress and to provide comfort and peace of mind.
Find a location for your bail bond company within a reasonable proximity to the jail you will service. Once you have secured a location, you can apply for your bail bond license. You'll need to purchase a surety bond and pay the application fee. Contact an attorney who specializes in surety bonds to help you procure your surety bond.
Establish your business entity, such as a limited liability company (LLC) or corporation, then register your business at your county clerk's office.
Learn your state's bond laws, such as what to expect from the court when a defendant fails to appear in court and the circumstances behind bond forfeitures and when a bond can be recouped. You may be required to attend an annual training course. Create bail bond applications and indemnity agreements for your clients to sign.
Contact your state licensing department to find out what steps you'll need to take in order to get your bail bond license. Generally, you must have completed a bail bond course, have related experience, or a combination of both. Enroll in a training course, if necessary. Your state may be able to provide you with a list of schools in your area. Become a notary. In your business, you'll need to have documents notarized, and this will save you time and money.
Advertise your bail bond service. Contact local court clerks about referring defendants to your company. Advertise on billboards outside of the jail. Post fliers in bar bathrooms. Submit your business to online directories.
评论