Media, literature, and old wives’ tales can take all the credit for creating an inaccurate perception about bail bondsmen and bail bonds. In fact, continue reading to learn the top misconceptions about bail bond agents in Indiana, and finally clear up all the false rumors and myths surrounding the industry in general.

Untrue Speculations About Bail Bondsmen and Bail Bonds

☒ Bail Bond Agents are Bounty Hunters – FALSE

This is the most common misconception about bail bond agents. In the movies and on TV, bounty hunters are portrayed as hard-core street law enforcers that hunt down fugitives and bring them into custody. This is not what a bail bondsman does at all. A fugitive is anyone that has escaped incarceration, has an outstanding arrest warrant, or has missed a court date.  They are persons wanted by the law. 

A bounty hunter is someone that can seek out these fugitives and assist law enforcement in bringing them in; however, they are a separate working party that is not affiliated with police in any way. When they bring in a wanted person, they receive a bounty, or cash amount, for their services. This is how the bounty hunter business thrives.

Bail Bond agents work legally to obtain a release from jail for anyone incarcerated and eligible for bail. They are the underwriters that cover the entire bond amount handed down by the courts, while only charging a percentage of the fee to the defendant in exchange for their services.  This charge is non-refundable but pays for exceptional and legal service to get out of jail.

☒ Bail Bond Agents and Staff are Mean – FALSE

Why are bail bond agents portrayed as the mean guys on television? This is simply not true.  Depending on which state and county you live in, bail bond companies are often family owned and operated. This means they are one of the people, just like everyone else in the community. They are simply running a business the best way they can. Most bail bond agents are in the industry to help people because they enjoy reuniting friends and family, as well as, giving someone an opportunity for a fresh start. They are happy to be of service, and grateful for your business in most cases.

☒ Bail Bond Agents Can Charge Whatever They Want – FALSE

All bail bond companies are legally obligated to comply with state and local ordinances regarding the cost of bail bond services. In most states, bail bondsmen are only allowed to charge between 10 and 15 percent of the total bond amount. If a bail bond company is advertising cheap bail bonds, they are lying. It will generally be 10% or 15% of the total bond, no more and no less. The cost of bail then only rises as the total bond amount rises.

Are you looking for fast and trusted bail bond services near you? Contact Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 to get out of jail in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients in over 30 counties with offices located in the Northern, Central and Southern parts of the state.

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