After the arrest of a loved one, you may feel that you don't have much time to find a reputable bail bond company. You have to make decisions fast, and you may have no idea what bail bond companies are best to work with.

Read on to learn the qualities of reliable bail bond companies in your area so when your loved one is arrested, you know exactly who to turn to.

Fair Rates

A reputable bail bond agent will typically charge about 10 percent of the cost of the bond set by the court when the bond is for a state offense. For a federal bond, you will have to pay a premium of 15 percent, according to Florida's Division of Consumer Services.

Reputable bail bond agencies will offer you a contract that clearly lays out the premium and any additional charges. This ensures you are not surprised with extra fees. The document will also describe any collateral you are putting up.

The contract should also describe clearly the circumstances under which you will not obtain your collateral or monetary funds. It should also specify when you will be asked to pay the full bail amount. For instance, the payment circumstances change if your loved one fails to appear in court for their trial.

Easily Accessible

Bail bonds offices are typically accessible for those who are looking to bail a loved one out of jail. You should be able to find reputable companies online or in the phone book. You should also be able to read online reviews about the companies you intend to work through, ensuring you are getting what you pay for.

At the same time, bail bond agents don't typically come to you. In many areas, bail bond agents aren't allowed to seek out clients in jail. Clients can come to them, however.

Finally, consider that the bail bond agent also needs to be accessible to the jail and courthouse. The company should be able to deliver the necessary documents and funds. For this reason, you might seek out a bail bond company that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Bond License

A Florida bail bond company should have a license. All bail bond agents must be qualified and licensed to act within the state. If you ask the bail bond agent about their qualifications, they should be able to provide documentation to show that they are reputable and able to work in the state.

Still have questions? Florida allows you to search for licenses on the web.

Qualified Agents

Keep in mind that not all bail bond agents are equally qualified to handle every case. Some bail bond agents do not handle federal bonds while others don't handle property or surety bonds.

Reputable bail bonds companies are open and honest about their policies. If you ever have questions, you should feel comfortable asking about the process.

Trustworthy Professionals

In some cases, you are required to put up collateral as a way to guarantee you can pay the bail amount if the need arises. Collateral can be the deed to a house, the pink slip to a car, or even a piece of jewelry.

A bail bond company must be trustworthy so you can rest assured knowing that you will get your collateral back. Again, this is where online feedback and reviewing your contract come in. Make sure you fully understand the contractual obligations on both ends.

Matt McKeehan Bail Bonds provides a reputable and reliable bail bond experience. Our fast and friendly service ensures your needs are met 24/7. Do you still have questions? Call our office today to discuss your Florida bail bond options.

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