Three Mistakes to Avoid Making When You Are Out on Bail
Taking out a bail bond is often the only way to raise bond money when you are charged with a crime but don't want to spend weeks or months sitting in jail as you await trial. A bond is basically a loan extended by the bondsman to cover your bail for a fee. In return, the bondsman will work to ensure you keep your court date so that they get their bond money back, otherwise you will have to pay the bondsman directly. It's vital that you avoid the following mistakes when working with a bonds company.
#1: Not keeping in touch with the bonds company
Depending on the type of crime you are charged with, you may be able to travel either within your state or even outside of the state while awaiting trial. Even if this is the case, it is vital that you keep your bonds company abreast of your plans. This is because unannounced trips can lead the bonds company to suspect that you are trying to skip out on your bail at a cost to them. To avoid any issues, contact your bonds company before you leave on any trip. Let them know where you are going, whom you will be staying with, and when you will return. This way they can make sure you fulfill your end of the bond agreement.
#2: Supplying false information
All information provided to the bond company must be correct. Lying outright can result in a bond being denied or retracted by the company. It's also vital that you don't inadvertently give false information. For example, check that the names, addresses, and contact information for your legal team as well as for any references are correct and fully up to date. Your own contact information must also remain up to date. If your phone number or address changes while you await trial, notify the bonds company immediately. The same goes for any other major changes, such as your employment status.
#3: Getting into more trouble
A second arrest can lead to a loss of your bond. In some jurisdictions, a second arrest while out on bond automatically renders the original bail amount invalid. The bond company will receive their funds back since you are again in custody. If you are lucky enough to be given an opportunity to get out on bail again, you may not be able to secure a bond from the original company because they will see you as a risk. Other bond companies may also see you as too risky for bond, which means you will have to raise the bail amount, which is now likely much higher, on your own.
For more help, talk to a bond company like A Bail Now Bail Bonds, Inc. in your area.