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How to Choose a Rhode Island Bail Bondsman

Posted by Ken Barrett | Nov 27, 2016 | 0 Comments

If you're looking for a Bail Bondsman in RI, use these simple tips to help you choose the right one.

Does someone you know need to post bail, but is unable to afford to pay the amount that was set by a judge? Instead of feeling like all hope is lost, there is still a way you can help. A bail bond provides a way for someone to get out of jail while awaiting for a trial to begin. Sometimes it can take a while before a trial date arrives and being able to wait that time outside of a jail cell can be a huge relief.

Before securing a bail bond, it's important to understand what exactly a bail bond is, what a bail bondsman does, and how to choose the right bail bondsman. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about choosing a Rhode Island bail bondsman. 

What is a Bail Bond?

In many instances, the defendant in a case will have to await trial in jail, which can be a very stressful and scary situation. In order to avoid spending this time in jail while awaiting a trial to begin, the defendant will need to be able to post bail. The amount for bail will be set by the judge and can sometimes be pretty costly. Oftentimes the defendant is unable to pay the amount of bail the judge has set, which is where a bail bond comes in.

Sometimes referred to as a surety bond, a bail bond is paid by a bail bondsman. A bail bond will guarantee the defendant is released from jail and will be able to await trial freely. However, there are requirements when it comes to getting a bail bond. One of the main requirements is that the defendant must attend all mandatory court appearances. If the defendant was to miss any required court appearances, the bail bondsman would have to pay a pre-determined amount. Fortunately, this does not happen often, as most people show up in court on the dates they are required to do so. Any defendant in a trial who is considered to be high risk will likely not be granted a bail bond, due to the likelihood they might skip court dates.

What Does a Bail Bondsman Do?

As mentioned above, if the defendant misses any important court dates surrounding the trial, the bail bondsman faces a monetary penalty. This penalty must be paid to the court and will impact not just the bail bondsman, but also the defendant in the case and any friends or family who helped to secure the bail bond in the first place. Bail bondsmen are allowed to get money back from the defendant if any terms and conditions of the bail bond deal have been broken. This is why it is so important for any defendant who received a bail bond to attend all court appearances.

A bail bondsman is entitled to receive a return on the investment they made in the defendant They can charge a premium based on the type of charges the defendant is facing. They can also ask for personal property or other assets to be used as collateral. In cases like this, the items may be taken if the defendant fails to appear at mandatory court hearings. This is another reason to make sure you abide by all the terms and conditions set by a Rhode Island bail bondsman if you choose to seek a bail bond.

What Should I Look for in a Bail Bondsman?

One of the first things you should look at when choosing a bail bondsman is whether or not the company is backed by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can easily access the Better Business Bureau's website to find ratings and reviews for a bail bondsman in your area. This will be the first step in choosing the best person to aid in providing you with a bail bond. You want to choose someone who is highly rated and has good reviews from prior customers. This is just a great way to ensure you make the right decision in choosing a reputable, dependable bail bondsman.

You want to choose a Rhode Island bail bondsman that is willing to work with you and your financial situation. Any time you are seeking a bail bond to release someone from jail, it's obviously a stressful and trying situation emotionally. You want to find someone who is willing to work with you and make the entire process easier. You will also want to ensure the bail bondsman you choose is able to work legally in your jurisdiction. Be sure to ask each company you contact about this as well.

It is also important to get all of the details on how to repay the bond so you understand what is expected of you and what the terms and conditions are of accepting the bail bond. As mentioned above, many bail bondsmen will ask for collateral such as personal property or other assets such as a car title. However, not all bail bondsmen will ask for collateral. If you are concerned about putting your personal property on the line, you will want to choose a bail bondsman who does not ask for collateral.

Keep in mind that you do not have to with the first Rhode Island bail bondsman you come across in the phone book. Instead, call around and get information from a few different companies to weight your options. Do your research! Ask the questions mentioned above and understand the conditions each company outlines for someone seeking a bail bond. You want to choose a company that you feel good about so you are confident and comfortable in the choice you have made during such a difficult time. If you do not feel good about the Rhode Island bail bondsman with whom you are speaking, that's a sign that you might not be the best fit for each other. Don't just settle on a company without knowing the facts. Spend a little time doing your research to choose the best company possible.

About the Author

Ken Barrett

Attorney Kensley Barrett is a skilled criminal defense lawyer with a proven track record in handling a wide range of cases in Rhode Island. Known for his strong background in trial advocacy and negotiation, Barrett is dedicated to providing personalized and effective representation for his clients. Recognized as a "Rising Star" by Super Lawyers and with a 10.0 "Superb" rating on Avvo, he consistently achieves successful outcomes, including acquittals, dismissals, and reduced charges.

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Kensley Barrett

Our law firm was founded on the belief that working with us is more than just hiring a lawyer. Working with us will bring you peace of mind and also allow you to continue with your regular life while we attend to your legal matters. Our vast experience means that it allows us to excel in both aggressively representing your interests and generating the best possible result for you.

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