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Getting arrested is never an enjoyable experience for the defendant or their loved ones, but working with the right people can make the situation far less scary. While a good attorney is one important connection to form, a bail bail bonds agent is equally crucial. But what does a bail bonds agent do and how can they help your family through this difficult moment?

What is a bail bonds agent?

A bail bonds agent, also known as a bail bondsman despite the fact that there are more female than male representatives in California, is a professional who works for themselves or a bail bonds agency. All agents are licensed and regulated by the California Department of Insurance, who is responsible for setting and governing regulations for firms across the Golden State.

Bail bond agents ultimately work to help their clients secure a quick release from jail following their arrest. Quality bond agents, like our agents at Future Bail Bonds, also boast a strong local presence and a good working relationship with jails and judges across California.

Using a bail bonds agent in California

A bail bonds agent can be hired to secure a defendant’s quick release from jail while simultaneously helping defendants overcome the financial obstacles that they could face during this process. 

The courts set cash bail fees at a very high level, usually in the tens of thousands of dollars, because they do not want defendants to flee while on bail. Sadly, many defendants do not have instant access to this level of funding. A bail bonds agent will post the bail amount on behalf of the defendant and take on the legal responsibility of ensuring that they attend all hearings. For this service, defendants pay a premium that is 10% (although sometimes less), which can be paid immediately or through a repayment plan.

What does the bail bonds agent actually do?

While most people view bail bonds agents as representatives who simply put up the cash to secure a defendant’s release from jail, the truth is that they may take on several tasks during this process while also offering a range of additional services as required. 

Bonds agents are primarily responsible for writing bonds, dropping off bond paperwork to the court or jail, following up with clients, answering questions and underwriting bail bonds, which are similar to a type of insurance policy. They can also help defendants and their loved ones by providing;

  • Free inmate locator services if you’re not sure which jail your loved one is held at,
  • Free consultations to discuss the best solutions for defendants and co-signers,
  • Support through the bail process to help defendant’s complete the process faster,
  • Help following rearrests or bail bonds reinstatements.

While a bail bonds agent cannot provide legal advice, their understanding of the bail process may also result in negotiations for a cheaper bail fee to be set in a number of situations. Here at Future Bail Bonds, our experts are available 24/7. If you need our comprehensive and confidential services, get in touch now.