How To Become A Bail Bondsman

By Author: Woodrow Stewart
Total Articles: 16
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Being a bail bondsman is becoming more popular, due in part to the media factor. Some T.V. shows and movies have focused on the subject and brought it to a career forefront.

Bonding can be profitable and allows for flexibility in time spent on the job. But, it is not an easy job, and not everyone is suited for it. After all, you will be dealing with the criminal element.

The bail bondsman enters the picture after a defendant has been indicted. The bondsman pays the bail that allows for the release of the defendant, pending his/her trial. When the defendant appears for trial, the bondsman is reimbursed by the court. A percentage, usually 10%, of the amount of bail posted makes up the bondsman's fee. If the defendant fails to show up for trial, however, the bondsman forfeits the bail money. This is why the bondsman must be insured. A contract is made with an insurance company to guard against risk to the bondsman or his/her family. A BUF (build up fund) is also handled by the insurance company contracted. The bondsman may deposit a small amount of each fee earned, into this fund. It should build and be protected ...
... by the FDIC, to be used as a retirement benefit. Before signing contract with an insurance company, shop around and ask advice from other bondsmen. It is advisable to have a lawyer go over the details of the contract.

Before you decide to become a bondsman, be sure that your state allows for the practice of private bonding. There are several states that don't, namely, Oregon, Illinois, Wisconsin, Massachusetts, and Kentucky.

You will need to know the qualifications necessary to apply for a license from your state's Dept. of Insurance. All states require that you are either a U.S. citizen, or an alien resident of the U.S. and are at least 18 years of age.

Classes and exams must be taken before receiving your license. This is because you will need to know about laws and technicalities involved in the bail process . A background check will be run, and your fingerprints will be taken and put on file.

A bail bond agency is sometimes ideal for people with previous experience in law enforcement. If you decide to open your own bail bond agency:

* Create a business plan - necessary for any loans you may want to apply for.

* Get a business license from your City Hall (about $50.00)

* Consider advertising - use the yellow pages or the internet.

* Be aware that your license must be renewed every 1-2 years.

* The right location, possibly in the vicinity of a jail.

Another good tip is to get to know the people involved in the various steps of the criminal justice system. Establishing a good reputation with judges, defense lawyers, and court clerks, can be an asset.

If you want quick jail release, contact Bryan Easley - a bail bondsman Denver providing confidential bail bonds service to help you in getting out of jail immediately.