When someone goes to jail or is charged with a crime, the court sets a bail amount that the defendant must pay before the court releases them. A bail bondsman helps individuals or families make informed decisions and navigate the legal process. At Woodard Bonding Company, our team is available 24/7 to support those who have been arrested. Here’s how our team helps you navigate the legal system:

Using Bail Bondsman Services

A bail bond is a financial commitment that requires a defendant to appear in court when required. The process involves more than a payment to the court; it includes a contractual promise. If the defendant appears at every scheduled hearing and fulfills the court’s requirements, the bond is eventually exonerated once the trial or case concludes. Exoneration happens regardless of the verdict, whether it is guilty, not guilty, or dismissed, and it means the bond is discharged. Any premium or fees owed to the bail bond agency remain due even after exoneration.

Every bail bond involves three parties: the licensed bail bondsman, the indemnitor, and the court. Courts prefer this arrangement because the bail bondsman takes on direct responsibility for making sure the defendant appears. If the defendant fails to appear, the bondsman may take steps to locate the defendant.

Understanding Court Bail Amount

A judge or magistrate sets the bail amount. The court reviews the seriousness of the charge, the defendant’s prior criminal record, and how likely the defendant will appear at future hearings. The judge also weighs evidence of injury or threats against a victim, along with the defendant’s history involving controlled substances.

Reviewing the Bond Process 

Contacting a bail bondsman is straightforward, and the entire process can typically be handled by phone and fax. When you call, the agent will ask for specific details, such as the defendant’s full legal name, date of birth, and the bail amount set by the court. An agent also requests background information such as the defendant’s employment and prior arrest history.

The bondsman contacts the jail to verify the bail information and then arranges for the defendant to be released. The bail bond premium is due once the defendant is released from jail and is non-refundable, even if the case is later dismissed or the defendant is found not guilty. A co-signer may also be included in the bail bond agreement. By co-signing, this person accepts financial responsibility for the defendant while they are out on bail. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the co-signer is held responsible for repaying the full amount.

A bondsman operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Because arrests occur at random, a bondsman can go through the release process immediately. At Woodard Bonding, we handle misdemeanor and felony cases across municipal, state, superior, and federal courts.

Contact Woodard Bonding Company

The bail bond process involves specific legal obligations and strict court requirements. A licensed bail bondsman handles the procedural and contractual details that determine how quickly the defendant can be released. Knowing who is involved and who to contact puts you in a better position to move through the process without unnecessary delays. Contact our team at Woodard Bonding Company if you have questions about a specific case.