Facts About the Bail Reform Act of 1984

The Bail Reform Act of 1984 sanctions and sets forth the procedures for a judicial officer to order the discharge or incarceration of an arrested individual who is pending trial.

Indianapolis Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Indianapolis Bail Bonds 317-876-9600


The Bail Reform Act of 1984 is important to our rights as U.S. citizens. Although it has been amended several times, it still stands solid as a form of protection for those being persecuted under state or federal law. Fundamentally, it requires the government to abide by certain rules to ensure a defendant’s rights are not jeopardized. The Bail Reform Act of 1984 mostly affects the detention hearing portion of the criminal justice process. A preliminary detention hearing is the same thing as a bail hearing, except that it only deals with federal level crimes. Bail hearings take place on a state level.

The Bail Reform Act of 1984

(18 U.S.C. §§3141–3150)

Under the Bail Reform Act of 1984, defendants are protected with several procedural rights. Courts cannot deny a defendant a pretrial release unless an adversary hearing is held in which the Federal Government can provide clear and concise evidence that no release conditions “will reasonably assure (…) the safety of any other person and the community.” 18 U.S.C. 3142(e) (1982 ed., Supp. III).

It also ensures that all defendants are granted their constitutional amendments, especially the 4th, 5th, 6th, 8th, and 14th amendment. This includes a person’s right to a speedy and public trial, request an attorney, testify, present witnesses, cross examine witnesses testifying against them, submit evidence, and more. Here are some excerpts of each amendment:

Fourth Amendment (1791)
Protection from Unreasonable Searches and Seizures

“The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.”

Fifth Amendment (1791)
Protection of Rights to Life, Liberty, and Property

“No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury (…); nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, (…) nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.”

Sixth Amendment (1791)
Rights of Accused Persons in Criminal Cases

“In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defense.”

Eighth Amendment (1791)
Excessive Bail, Fines, and Punishments Forbidden

“Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.”

Fourteenth Amendment (1868)
Rights of Citizenships

“(…) No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law, nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.”

James Woods Knows Your Rights to Bail!

Indiana Bail Bonds

Indiana Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Call Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for prompt and professional bail bond services in Indiana. Owner, James Woods, and his team of licensed and insured bail agents, provide 24 hour bail bonds in over 30 Indiana counties. Regardless of time, day, or city, we can get you out of jail fast, and for as low as 8% of your total bond!

The Exceptions to Your Right to Bail

Indianapolis Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Indianapolis Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Usually, anyone under arrest has the right to bail. However, there are some circumstances in which a person in custody would be denied this right. In most cases, this happens because a defendant who is facing felony charges is found to be a danger to themselves or to others. Other reasons involve the severity of criminal charges, criminal history, flight risk, and more. The decision to deny bail is actually very complex and comprehensive. It is a duty that is taken very seriously by the law and by the court system. But it does happen quite often. Learn why, below.

Bail Hearings

In most cases bail is granted. It is generally set directly following a defendant’s arrest at a bail hearing. At this hearing, the bail amount is set by the presiding judge. The amount of bail depends on several factors, including the county’s particular bail schedule, as well as the severity of crime, priors, pending charges, and more. But in some federal cases, bail is denied.

This can be for a number of reasons. Depending on the jurisdiction, guidelines can differ, but it is common for bail to be denied based on a public safety exception. This exception implies that the defendant poses a risk of danger to themselves and others if released on bail before their trial date. This is sometimes referred to as a “protective detention.”

In federal court, the Bail Reform Act of 1984 decrees when judges have the right to deny bail based on the danger risk of a defendant. These protective detentions are permitted by the Act so long as the defendant is being charged with a certain type of federal offense. These offenses include:

Violent Crimes
Crimes Involving Minors
Neglecting to Register as a Sex Offender
Drug Crimes with Maximum Penalty of 10 Years
Crimes with a Maximum Penalty of a Life Sentence
Crimes with a Maximum Penalty of Capital Punishment
Felony Crimes with 2 Prior Qualifying Crimes on Criminal Record
Crimes Involving Weapon Possession or Use

These offenses only make a defendant eligible for denied bail. It does not guarantee that their bail will be denied. A judge must also take into consideration the level of danger the defendant poses to the community and to themselves. They must consider the nature of the crime, the seriousness of the risk they pose to others, and the level of evidence the prosecution has against them, as well as the defendant’s criminal history, personal characteristics, mental illnesses, substance abuse problems, employment, family, and more. If a judge denies bail, they must explain why in a written order. Defendants have the right to appeal the order in a higher court, but these kind of appeal are rarely won.

Indiana Bail Bonds You Can Trust

Woods Bail Bonds

Woods Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Call Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for prompt and professional bail bond services in Indiana. Owner, James Woods, and his team of licensed and insured bail agents, provide 24 hour bail bonds in over 30 Indiana counties. Regardless of time, day, or city, we can get you out of jail fast, and for as low as 8% of your total bond! Request a free estimate, anytime.

What is a Bench Warrant?

Indiana Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Indiana Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

If you have just learned of a bench warrant, you are surely full of questions. Fortunately, a bench warrant is not exactly like an arrest warrant, where you must answer to it by surrendering to authorities and going to jail. However, there are stiff legal consequences for ignoring or neglecting a bench warrant. In these cases, jail could be a real possibility. Continue reading to learn more about bench warrants, including what to expect and who to talk to for professional advice.

Bench Warrants

A bench warrant is issued by the courts when a person misses their trial. This is called an “FTA”, or “failure to appear.” The word “bench” in bench warrant essentially implies the judge’s seat, and requests that you answer to the court for both your original charge and now for your FTA offense. In contrast to arrest warrants, bench warrants are used for minor criminal cases, mostly citations and similar petty infractions such as traffic tickets or j-walking.

Although police will not be on the hunt for those with a bench warrant, the defendant will have their name entered into a statewide database that notifies law enforcement. This means that a person with a bench warrant can be arrested and taken into the custody by law enforcement if they are ever looked up in the database and discovered, such as in the case that they are stopped for a routine traffic offense or other scenario.

How it Works

Once you are aware that you have a bench warrant, the first thing you need to do is contact your private criminal defense lawyer. They will handle all aspects of your charges and give you step-by-step instructions on what to do in the best interest of your case. However, since most bench warrant cases are not serious, you may not need to contact your lawyer at all, especially if you are not a repeat offender.

Instead, you should contact a local Indianapolis bail bondsman to prearrange bail in your favor. This will save you hours of time and frustration. That is because after you call a bail bondsman, you will need to show up at the jail or county clerk’s office and submit to your bench warrant. This will entail you being taken into custody for processing, paying off court costs and fines for both the original charges and the FTA charge, paying off your bail, and then being issued a new court date. A bail bondsman can expedite this process for you, while also giving you a ride from their office, to and from the jail.

Prompt and Professional Indiana Bail Bonds

Woods Bail Bonds

Woods Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Call Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for prompt and professional bail bond services in Indiana. Owner, James Woods, and his team of licensed and insured bail agents, provide 24 hour bail bonds in over 30 Indiana counties. Regardless of time, day, or city, we can get you out of jail fast, and for as low as 8% of your total bond!

Review of Common Bail Bond Questions and Answers

Arrests happen. Even to the best of us. Don’t get down about an arrest warrant, or when a friend is arrested. This is what a bail bondsman is for! Bail bonds are the solution to obtaining a release from jail following an arrest or after turning in for a warrant. Bail bond services and companies differ, which is why people have so many questions. Below are a few of the most common bail bond questions and answers to help you review some facts about the industry. It is always best to be fully-informed and prepared when it comes to legal matters and jail.

Indianapolis Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Indianapolis Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

What is a Bail Bond?

A bail bond is also called a surety bond. It is a formal and legal document that allows a person to be released from jail. It is basically a document signed by a person acting on behalf of a defendant, or the defendant themselves, promising to appear for all future court dates and hearings until their legal obligation is completed. It is difficult explaining exactly what a bail bond is, which is why you should continue reading in order to obtain a better understanding of what bail bonds are all about.

What is the Cost of a Bail Bond?

The price of a bail bond is regulated by local ordinances. The formula that is used most often is the percentage calculation. This means bail bond agencies can charge either ten or fifteen percent of the original bond amount. So if a person is arrested and given a $5,000 bond and the local law says companies can charge 10%, the bail bond would cost the defendant $500. It is ten percent of the original bond amount handed down from the judge. In some states, there is an automatic 5% added on for local taxes, etc.

Who Can Bail a Person Out of Jail?

A person can choose to bail themselves from jail by using the jail pay phone and contacting a near-by Indianapolis bail bond company. Funds can be transferred and the bail agent will sign for the person’ release. Another option is to have a person that is 18 years of age with a valid photo I.D. This can be family, friends, or lawyers. As long as the bail agency gets paid and the proper documents are legally signed by an adult, anyone can post bail for another person.

Indy Bail Bonds

Woods Bail Bonds

Woods Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Call Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 to get out of jail in Indianapolis, Indiana. James Woods and his team of licensed bail bondsmen offer superior bail bond services for all Indiana cities and municipalities.

How Long Does the Bail Bond Process Take?

Noblesville Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Noblesville Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

No one in their right mind looks forward to going to jail after they’ve been arrested. It is just a very unlikely scenario that someone actually wants to go to jail. An arrest can happen to the best of us, so being detained in jail does not make anyone a bad person. It is simply one of life’s teachable moments. Because jail is such an undesirable place to be, many ask how long it takes to get out with a bail bond. The answer to this question varies, so it is important for you to know what to expect after being arrested. If you have a warrant issued for your arrest, you have the advantage of preparing for a short stint in jail and learning what will happen before you turn yourself in.

Continue reading to learn what happens when you go to jail, and how long it generally takes to be released with a bail bond.

Getting Out of Jail with a Bail Bond

If a person is arrested on the spot, they are handcuffed and placed in the backseat of a police squad car. From there, they are transported to the county jail; unless they are under the influence of other drugs, in which case, they would be transported to a clinic first for blood testing, and then transported to the jail in the county their crime was committed. There is a big difference in time when it comes to being arrested while intoxicated, and being arrested while sober.

Once a person arrives at the county jail, the arresting officer signs them in. Then they are escorted to the jail’s booking and processing center, where they are held in a jail cell; much like the ones you see on television. If a person is intoxicated on drugs or alcohol, they must wait for at least 8 hours to achieve sobriety before being eligible for booking. Once a person is sober, or they are arrested sober, the booking process can begin. This is the process of collecting inmate’s information, like fingerprints, mugshot, background information, medical history, and more. Once an inmate is entered in the jail’s database, they can begin the release process. This is their opportunity to make a phone call, either to a loved one or a local Hamilton County bail bondsman.

A person can have a loved one sign for a bail bond to get them out of jail, or nowadays, they can sign for their own bail bond, depending on the agency and the services they offer. Many bail bondsmen offer free jail pickup and drop-off services for anyone who wants to bail themselves out of jail. If the jail is busy, and traffic is high, it will take longer for the staff to get to all the inmates for booking. This is another variable that comes into play as far as jail wait times. For those turning themselves in for a warrant, they might be released from jail in as little as two or three hours, depending on the amount of jail traffic.

Call Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for more information about getting out of jail in Hamilton County, Indiana. Owner, James Woods, offers 24 hour bail bonds that are fast and friendly!

How to Find Money for Bail

Indiana Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Indiana Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

The most common approach to take when a friend or loved one has been arrested is to use professional bail bond services. Obtaining a bail bond is a fast, secure, and legal method to release a person from jail. Unfortunately, one problem people encounter is attaining sufficient funds to purchase bail bond services. Bail bond agency rates are mandated by local ordinances. Usually, the bail bond fee is between 10 to 15% of the original bond amount.

If a persons’ bond is set at $5,000, then the bail bond fee would be a non-refundable $500. It is understandably difficult to come up with cash like this, unexpectedly. If you are in a similar situation, and need to raise bail out money fast, read the following tips to getting the cash you need right now.

How to Get Bail Money

It is stressful taking on the pressure of raising a large amount of money in a short amount of time. On top of bills, mortgages, credit card debt, gas prices, and more bills; it can seem impossible to find an extra 500 dollars out of nowhere to bail someone from jail.

One way to earn extra cash: sell old clothes and belongings. You could have a yard sale. If the weather permits, collect all the extra junk and old clothing you never use and tag it for a good price. If you keep your prices low, they will sell much faster. Items such as used DVDs, CDs, furniture, clothing, toys, tools, and books can sell fast at a yard sale. The key to selling all your items is to set a price that is guaranteed to sell; not the price that its worth.

In situations where you need emergency cash, you have to make sacrifices. If the weather doesn’t permit an outdoor yard sell, find local consignment shops and sell your items to them. You can make anywhere from $15 to $200, especially if you visit multiple stores. You can find these shops in any local directory. Another way to get bail money is to pick up some extra hours at work. Trade shifts, pick up shifts, or ask for overtime. This can sometimes be a shot in the dark because some companies do not allow overtime.

If neither of these two options work for you, then checkout your local cash loan stores. Most times, this type of borrowing is not recommended for regular use because you can wind up in a never-ending loop of paying and borrowing. However, these stores can be very beneficial to someone that needs an emergency cash loan right away. There is no wait and you can get the cash almost immediately. There are certain stipulations and guidelines to borrowing money from payday advance places; but they are all different. If all else fails, you can always ask to borrow money from another friend or loved one.

Who to Call for Fast Bail Bonds

Woods Bail Bonds

Woods Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Call Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for information about getting out of jail in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Owner, James Woods, offers 24 bail bonds, emergency bail bonds, free jail information, inmate searches, and much more. Call 317-876-9600 for fast and secure bail bond services in Indianapolis, IN.

FAQS about Indiana Bail Bonds

If you have questions about the bail bond process and the cost to obtain such services, you are in the right spot. Just continue reading to get some helpful answers to your bail bond questions.

Indiana Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Indiana Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

How Much Does a Bail Bond Cost?

Bail bonds require a non-refundable payment called a bail bond premium. Across the country, the standard rate for bail bonds is 10 to 15 percent of a defendant’s total bond amount. But at Woods Bail Bonds, we offer 8% bail bonds in all Indiana counties!

Here’s an example for a $5,000 bond:

Total Bond Amount = $5000
15% Bail Bond Fee = $750
10% Bail Bond Fee = $500
8% Bail Bond Fee = $400

How is a Bond Amount Set?

A defendant’s bond amount is fixed by the court in the county of the charges. It is dependent on several factors, including the severity of the charges, criminal history, flight risk, and more.

What Does it Mean to Be “Booked” or “Processed” in Jail?

Once a defendant is arrested, they are transported to the nearest county jail. When they arrive, they must wait their turn to be “booked and processed” by jail staff. Depending on a number of factors (sobriety, behavior, jail traffic, number of staff available, etc.), this process can take anywhere from one hour to 24 hours or more. Upon good behavior and sobriety, the booking process can begin. It generally includes:

✒ Confiscation and Cataloguing of Personal Belongings
✒ Weapons Check
✒ Warrant Check
✒ Background Check
✒ Finger Printing
✒ Mug Shot
✒ Jail Database Entry of Defendant’s Profile
✒ And More

Can I Be Denied a Bail Bond?

There are two circumstances in which a defendant could not obtain a bail bond. First, they can be denied bond by the court as a result of their criminal history or severity of charges. In this situation, the defendant must wait in jail until their initial court hearing, where they could be ordered back to jail or granted the right to bail. On the other hand, even if a court sets a defendant’s bond, they can be denied service by a bail bond company if they are considered a flight risk, or have a history of “skipping” bail.

What Information Do I Need to Bail Someone Out of Jail?

If you are assuming the responsibility of signing for a friend or loved one’s bail bond, you are taking on a very serious legally-binding obligation. In order to expedite the process, you will need to gather the following information to give to your bail bondsman:

✒ Full Name
✒ Booking Number
✒ County of Arrest
✒ Arrest Charges
✒ Bond Amount

Who is Liable for a Bail Bond?

The co-signer, or indemnitor, is responsible for the full face value of the bail bond, which is the total bond amount. So if a defendant’s bond is set at $5,000 and you co-sign for their bail, if they do not appear for court you will be legally-bound to pay the entire $5,000 or face legal penalties yourself. This is why it is so important to only co-sign bail bond agreements for close friends and family, or people you know you can trust. Never sign for a person you have just met or only known for a short while.

Can I Get a Refund for a Bail Bond?

No; once the bond is posted and accepted by the court or county jail, liability is taken on the bail bond. Since this means the bail bond premium is fully earned, there is no possibility of a refund. The only way the cost of a bail bond is refunded is if the bail agent makes an error that inhibits them from providing their service. Keep in mind that this rarely ever happens.

What is Collateral?

Collateral might be required by a bail bond company under special circumstances, but usually it is not necessary. Collateral can be money, assets, property, and more. The collateral is held until the bail bond is exonerated and the premium is paid in full.

Where Can I Find Indiana Bail Bonds I Can Trust?

Woods Bail Bonds

Woods Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Call Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for prompt and professional bail bond services in Indiana. Owner, James Woods, and his team of licensed and insured bail agents, provide 24 hour bail bonds in over 30 Indiana counties. Regardless of time, day, or city, we can get you out of jail fast, and for as low as 8% of your total bond!

Do I Bail My Kid Out of Juvenile Detention?

Many parents want to know if they need to call a bail bondsman after their child is arrested and taken to a county juvenile detention center. If you are one of these parents, continue reading to put your mind at ease.

Juvenile Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Juvenile Bail Bonds 317-876-9600


Juveniles are children between the ages of 10 and 17. Once a child turns 18 years old, they are considered adults in the legal system. So when a minor is arrested for a crime, there is a separate procedure for getting them released from the juvenile detention center. That is mainly due to the fact that juveniles have a separate set of rights compared to defendants being tried in adult criminal court.

Although juveniles do have the right to an attorney, the right to an appeal, and the right against self-incrimination, they do not have the same rights as adults when it comes to bail. They do not have the right to a trial by jury either. On the other hand, there are some exceptions to the rule. For instance, if a juvenile is being tried as an adult, they get all the same constitutional rights as adults do in court.

Getting Out of Juvenile Hall

Just because juveniles are not given the right to traditional bail options doesn’t mean they have to sit in the detention center until their trial date. Most states have strict regulations and procedures on just how long a juvenile can be held prior to their trial, as well as, the methods by which they can be held. For example, Pennsylvania requires juveniles be held no longer than 24 hours prior to their detention hearing. Check with your state’s legal system to learn the specifics of juvenile detention limits.

A professional court officer called a juvenile master determines if there is enough evidence and probable cause that the minor committed the crime in question. They also have the discretion to decide how severe the penalties shall be depending on the nature of the crime, prior criminal records, and available adult supervision. These factors and more will influence the juvenile master’s decision to keep the defendant in custody until their trial or to release them to their parents.

If the court officer decides they need to be held, juveniles are kept in a secure facility while undergoing therapy, educational courses, and rehabilitation until their trial. Those who are released from custody prior to trial may face alternative penalties such as electronic ankle monitoring devices, house arrest, suspended drivers’ license, and intensive adult supervision.

In conclusion, you do not need a bail bondsman to get your child out of juvenile detention. Instead, contact your trusted criminal defense lawyer for help on taking the next steps in your child’s legal defense. If your teenager is under the age of 18, but being tried as an adult, they can be bailed out of jail. In this case, contact our Indianapolis bail bond company immediately for safe and secure assistance, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

Woods Bail Bonds

Woods Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Call Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for bail assistance, anytime. Owner, James Woods, and his team of licensed bail bondsmen, provide 24 hour bail bond services in over 30 Indiana counties. Regardless of time, day, or city, we can get you out of jail fast, and for as low as 8% of your total bond!

Additional FAQS About Acting as a Surety

Indianapolis Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Indianapolis Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Acting as a surety is an important, yet complex, responsibility. For this reason, it is important to do your research to full understand the liability you face when you become a person’s surety. As an extension to last week’s blog, we are covering even more frequently asked questions about acting as a surety for someone who has been arrested and detained in jail. Continue below to review some more common questions, and their answers. You may also contact a local Indianapolis bail bondsman for direct
assistance with your bail bond inquiries.

Can There Be More Than One Surety for a Personal in Jail?

Yes; sometimes courts will mandate multiple sureties for a person in jail. This usually happens if the case is a very serious one, or if the courts determine that the defendant requires more adequate supervision. Acting as a surety in a multi-surety arrangement simply means that you, as well as the others, will be fully responsible for the monetary consequences in the case that the defendant does not appear for court. Each party with sign the bail bond agreement contract, and hold equal liability.

If I Am Acting as My Own Surety, What Do I Need?

To act as your own surety is not uncommon, especially when defendants are surrendering to an arrest warrant. All you need to bring with you to court is your legal photo identification and proof of address. Having proof of address is especially important if your address on your photo I.D. differ from your mailing address. Although not necessary, it can also be helpful to have current bank statements (as far back as 3 months), employment records, and possibly proof of property ownership (i.e. car title, house deed, etc.). This shows a court that you have the assets to back up the bond amount.

Can I Be a Surety For More Than One Person at the Same Time?

This is usually frowned upon, and rarely approved by the court. That is because it is necessary to provide adequate supervision for a person who is out on bail and awaiting trial. Supervising more than one person is considered “spreading oneself too thin” since your attention is being demanding by two separate people, simultaneously.

Does a Person Have to Have a Surety to Be Released From Jail?

A person in jail does not always need to have a surety to get out of jail, and for a couple different reasons. For instance, a defendant may not be granted bail by the court, and instead, must wait in jail until their trail hearing. In another situation, a person may act as their own surety and post their own bond. They can do this by hiring a bail bond company on their own, or paying their total bond amount in cash at the jail.

Who Do I Call for Free Bail Bond Advice?

Woods Bail Bonds

Woods Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Call James Woods, owner and operator of Woods Bail Bonds in Indianapolis, Indiana. You can reach him or one of his highly trained and licensed Indianapolis bail bondsmen at 317-876-9600, day or night. We offer fast and friendly bail bonds, free jail information, inmate look-ups, jail pickup services, jail drop-off services, 24 hour emergency bail bond services, and more!

FAQS About Acting as a Surety

Learn the answers to the most frequently asked questions about acting as a surety for someone who has been arrested and taken to jail.

Indiana Bail Bond Company 317-876-9600

Indiana Bail Bond Company 317-876-9600


Acting as one’s surety is a serious responsibility. If a person fails to appear for their scheduled court hearing, you are responsible for paying the remainder of the bond amount on their behalf. If you do not have the cash to pay off the bond, you would likely have to forfeit assets, such as real estate and vehicles. This means you could lose your home, your vehicles, your savings, and more. Because of the seriousness of becoming one’s surety, it is common for people to have a lot of questions and concerns. Continue reading to review some frequently asked questions and answers about acting as a surety in order to obtain a release from jail for a friend or loved one.

What Does It Mean to Act as One’s Surety?

Signing bail bond paperwork, also known as an agreement or contract, you are becoming one’s surety. This means you will supervise them while they are out on bail to ensure they do not leave town, break any further laws, and appear for their scheduled court hearing. If they do not appear for court, you face financial penalties. A surety must be approved by the court.

As a Person’s Surety, Do I Have to Make a Payment Upfront?

Yes; an upfront payment will need to be made to the bail bond company during the signing of the bail bond contract, which must take place before the process can begin. This fee depends on the set bond amount and the local percentage regulations. Most Indiana bail bond companies are authorized to charge anywhere from 10 to 15 percent of the total bond amount. This fee is nonrefundable and due at the time of signing.

Can I Be a Surety if My Income is Low?

Your income should not make too much of a difference as long as you can prove you are employed full-time and have been employed consistently for a long duration of time. This shows the bail bondsman that you are capable of paying the entire bond amount in the case that the defendant fails to appear for court. Having assets also helps. You can put up collateral, such as real estate, vehicles, stocks, and more.

After I Agree to Act as a Surety, Can I Change My Mind?

Whether the trial is taking too long or you have fallen tired of keeping track of the defendant, you may change your mind and want to rid yourself of the responsibility. Unfortunately, this is not easy. Once you sign the bail bond agreement, you are in a contract. However, you can go to the court and request to “pull” the bail. But this means they will also issue an arrest warrant for your friend or loved one, and they would have to surrender to police, get booked in jail, and post bail all over again. The decision is up to you!

Can I Be a Surety if I Have a Criminal Record?

Usually a minor criminal record will not keep you from being qualified to act as a surety. It depends on the severity of the charges and/or convictions, whether or not you have any pending warrants or charges, and a few other factors.

Indiana Bail Bonds You Can Trust

Woods Bail Bonds

Woods Bail Bonds 317-876-9600

Call Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for prompt and professional bail bond services in Indiana. Owner, James Woods, and his team of licensed and insured bail agents, provide 24 hour bail bonds in over 30 Indiana counties. Regardless of time, day, or city, we can get you out of jail fast, and for as low as 8% of your total bond! Request a free estimate, anytime!