There are a whole lot of misconceptions out there about the bail bond process. It’s important to know the facts about bail bonds in Port Huron in order to ensure you don’t spin your wheels needlessly. At the same time, you should do your due diligence to find the right bondsman for you.
As you are looking for help to get your loved one out of the St. Clair County jail, keep the following facts about bail bonds in mind.
Myth #1: The bail bondsman can fight to have the bail amount reduced.
Fact: A bail bondsman cannot get your bail amount reduced. If there’s any chance of disputing the bail amount, the request would have to go through your attorney. Even that would be a bit of a stretch, but a judge may consider reducing bail for serious, extenuating, or unusual circumstances.
Myth #2: Bail bond agencies can charge whatever they want.
Fact: The bail bond fees are set by Michigan state law and cannot be more than 10% of the bail amount.
Myth #3: All bail bond agents in Port Huron are the same.
Fact: Some bail bondsmen are more experienced than others. That may make a difference in how quickly the bond is processed, how much attention is paid to detail in the documents, and how easily the bondsman can navigate the court system in St. Clair County.
Myth #4: If I get my friend out of jail, it will negatively affect my credit and reputation.
Fact: A bail bond is essentially like any loan or line of credit. As long as your credit is in decent shape to begin with and you follow all of the rules, the arrangement shouldn’t have any long-term negative effects on your credit.
Myth #5: You must pay bail amounts in cash.
Fact: The full amount of bail can be paid directly to the court with cash or check. Another option is to use collateral, typically your home or vehicle. You can also obtain a bail bond, for which you would only pay a percentage of the full bail amount. In our case, we accept cash or credit. We can also set up a flexible payment arrangement for those who need further assistance.
Myth #6: If I bail my friend out of jail, I’m trapped for good.
Fact: You typically do have the option to cancel the bond. If you are worried that your friend will not appear in court or have other concerns, you can contact the company to cancel the arrangement. If you take this route, keep in mind that your friend will now have to be sent back to jail, even if that means that a bounty hunter will be asked to find him or her.
For additional facts about bail bonds in Port Huron, contact one of our agents. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have about how to get a loved one out of the St. Clair County jail or how to make payment arrangements.
Tags: Bail Bond Facts, Bail Bond Myths