In the event of an arrest, the court sets a bail amount that the defendant pays to earn their release from custody. A bail bondsman acts as a financial guarantor between the defendant and the court; at the Woodard Bonding Company, we help make pre-trial release accessible for individuals and families. Here are a few aspects to understand about the role of a bail bondsman in the criminal justice system:

The Bail Bond Role

A bail bond, or surety bond, provides a legal agreement that guarantees a defendant will appear in court. Instead of paying the full bail amount directly to the court, a defendant or their family can work with a licensed bail bondsman. The arrangement involves a licensed bondsman, the individual requesting the bail, and the court; once the bond is posted, the defendant is released from custody while awaiting their court date. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bondsman locates the defendant and surrenders them to custody. 

The Court’s Role in Bail

A judge or magistrate sets bail, and the amount varies depending on the charge. Courts review several factors, such as the seriousness of the charge and the likelihood that the defendant will appear at trial. The court evaluates potential risks to public safety, including whether the alleged offense will harm another person. 

Some cases include whether the defendant has a history of similar conduct. The bail amount should remain reasonable and in compliance with court requirements without being excessive. The court helps protect the community, and it preserves the defendant’s right to remain free while their case is pending.

The Bond Role 

A bondsman can be contacted to begin the release process; they collect specific information about the detained individual. This includes a full legal name, date of birth, the county where they are being held, the charge, and the bail amount. Additional background information, such as employment and previous arrests, may also be required.

A judge or magistrate provides the bondsman with a percentage of the total bail amount. The bondsman helps contact the jail, confirms the bail information, and arranges the defendant’s release. Because courts move on their own schedules, it’s key that bondsmen operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The premium paid to the bondsman is around 10%, earned at the time the defendant is released from custody. This applies even if the defendant is later found innocent, the case is dismissed, or the defendant is returned to custody for a separate offense.

Work With a Bail Bondsman

A bail bondsman helps in the event of an arrest and before trial. They make pre-trial release possible for defendants who cannot pay bail in full, while providing the court with a contractual guarantee of appearance. At the Woodard Bonding Company, our team handles misdemeanor and felony cases across several courts. Our team is available 24/7 to assist families and individuals with phone consultations. For questions about a specific situation, contact our office or talk with one of our bondsman today to learn more about the bail bond process.