The bail bonds process can be complicated and confusing, with many options, variables, and pitfalls. It’s vital when navigating the bail bonds process to have a lawyer on your side who is well-versed in the intricacies of this ever-changing industry. This post will discuss why you need help from a lawyer navigating bail bonds and some of the most common reasons to retain counsel.
You May Not Know What You Are Entitled To
The bondsman you’re dealing with may not be telling you all the information you need to make an informed decision. For example, he may not discuss the difference between a premium and a non-premium bondsman; while they help you make bail, there are major differences between them. Or, he may not tell you about the importance of a “clean” record and how that relates to your payment options. Also, he may not tell you what is or isn’t considered a good collateral type. And these are just a few examples.
You Need Someone on Your Side Who Knows the Law
Even if your bondsman is honest and forthcoming with all of the information, knowing the law can help you understand it better and make the right choice(s). You may not know all the laws applicable to your situation, and an attorney can explain them to you. The more you understand the law, the more empowered you will feel when making decisions, and the easier it will be to make informed, educated choices.
There Is a Consequence for Not Following the Law
Ensuring you understand your rights and the law can help ensure you follow it. Not knowing the law can put you at risk for not doing the things you are legally mandated to do. Failing to appear for court, missing a payment, or violating any other terms of your bail bonds contract could result in serious consequences, including losing collateral and being sent back to jail. And because bondsmen are required to abide by the law and make sure that the people who post bail for their clients follow it, a bondsman can’t be held responsible for your failure to do so.
You’re Confronted With Subtle and Not-So-Subtle Pressure
Someone depends on you to follow the law. That person is possibly the most important in your life: it’s your loved one. When you step into a bail bonds office, you’re immediately put under pressure to make a decision. That pressure is sometimes subtle and usually very direct. For example, the bail bondsman will ask you what you have to give as collateral for your loved one’s bail.
There are many reasons you should hire a lawyer when doing any legal work, and the bail bonds process is no different. Before making any major decisions or choices in the bail bond process, it’s important to make sure that you understand them and have a lawyer on your side who can explain them to you in legal terms.
