When you're facing arrest, there's plenty of advice to go around. However, it's important to know how the bail bonds process works. Here are eight common myths that shouldn’t be believed.
Myth #1 - Bail Bondsmen are Unprofessional
One of the top stigmas about bail bondsmen is that they are unprofessional and “rough around the edges.” This couldn’t be further from the truth. The State of Ohio has strict requirements for bail bondsmen. To work in bail bonds, you must undergo background testing, complete required training and receive a state-issued license. Bail bondsmen in Ohio are licensed professionals who understand how to do their job with professionalism and integrity.
Myth # 2 - You Have to Pay the Entire Bail Amount to Be Released From Jail
A bail bond helps you make bail when you have limited cash. When you have a bail bond, you pay an agreed-upon amount to the bail bond company. Then, the bail bondsman pays the full amount that you need to make bail. In most cases, you can make bail for only a fraction of the total, court-ordered bond amount.
Myth # 3 - You Must Have Cash to Make Bail
If you're short on cash, you may be able to get a bail bond using collateral. A motor vehicle, motorcycle, recreational vehicle, jewelry, bank account, land or any other asset of value may count as collateral to secure a bail bond. Each bail bond company has their own rules and guidelines. You shouldn't assume that you can't secure a bail bond without talking about your options first.
Myth #4 - A Bail Bond is the Same Amount as the Bond
As mentioned above, typically, bail is posted on your behalf for part of the entire bond amount. The bail bond company pays the money on your behalf in exchange for a percentage fee of the total bond. Once you are released from jail, you must attend your court appearances. The bail bond company keeps the fee that you pay them, and the court returns the money to the bail bonds company.
Myth # 5 - Bail Bondsmen Put Dangerous Criminals Back on the Streets
You have the right to be free on bond until you resolve your case through the courts. A bail bondsman doesn't set the amount of bail — the court does. A bail bondsman helps people who already have a set bond pay the amount that the court orders.
Myth # 6 - You Might as Well Serve Your Jail Time Now
All jail time is not created equally. If you have a bail bond now, even if you plead guilty or you're found guilty later, you can take care of your personal affairs before you begin a jail sentence. Ohio allows work release from jail in some cases. Work release can be critical to keeping your job and providing for your family. Securing a bail bond gives you time to prepare for a period of incarceration including gathering the paperwork necessary for work release if you qualify.
Myth #7 - Bail Bondsmen Negotiate to Lower The Amount of Bond
Most courts have standard amounts of bail that they use for each type of offense. You can ask for the court to lower the amount of bond or change the conditions based on your individual circumstances. It's up to you to negotiate the terms of your bond. A bail bondsman doesn't negotiate on your behalf.
Myth #8 - Ignoring An Arrest Warrant Makes it Go Away
An arrest warrant is outstanding until you resolve it. No time limit applies to an arrest warrant. Until you answer the charges, you could be arrested at any time.
If you need a bail bond, contact Andy Callif Bail Bonds at (614) 945-4334. Our professional bail bondsmen are ready to answer all of your questions and help you understand how securing a bail bond can help you or a loved one who has been arrested and needs to be released from jail quickly.