We know you want to help your friend or loved one get out of jail, but we also understand that you need to watch out for you. Whether you feel good about this or not, the truth is that cosigning bail bonds is one of those requests that makes you think twice.
“I want to help, and I would feel bad not to help. But what if this hurts my credit rating? What if I lose money in the process?”
And perhaps worst of all: “Can I really, truly trust this friend?”
You probably wouldn’t say that out loud to the person asking you to cosign the bail bond, but it’s a valid thought.
What you need to know about cosigning bail bonds, however, is that they are not much riskier than any other financial arrangement. As long as you can trust the defendant and/or the person who is signing the bond with you, you shouldn’t have too much to worry about from a financial aspect.
What you Need to Know about Cosigning Bail Bonds
- Cosigning bail bonds comes with rules, stipulations and consequences. For example, a co-signer must make sure the defendant appears at court hearings. More importantly, if the defendant does not appear at court hearings, the bond will become your responsibility.
- Your credit history must be reasonably solid to obtain a bond. If you don’t pay the debt according to the terms, it could affect your credit score – just like a basic credit card debt.
- You may be able to ask that the released prisoner meet your demands, such as having the defendant attend anger management courses.
- A bail bond cosigner is sometimes referred to as an indemnitor.
- If you have serious second thoughts about the bail bond, you have the option of a bail bond surrender. However, because this means the defendant would go back to jail, making this decision would require serious reflection on your part. Before you make this decision, discuss your concerns with a trusted bail bond agent.
Contact Detroit Bail Bonds for More Information
When cosigning bail bonds, the most important thing you should do is ask your bail bond agent any and all questions on your mind. You might actually hear answers that will make you feel better about becoming a cosigner.
The bottom line, after all, is that you want your friends or loved ones to get out of jail until the court dates. As long as you and your friends or loved ones hold up their end of the bargain regarding court appearances and payment schedules, you should not have much to worry about.
Regardless, reach out to us with your questions and concerns through our Detroit Bail Bonds website or by phone at 313-244-0669. We’re here to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
