Bail bonding is a unique service. It allows someone in the tightest position of their life a chance to make things right.
When a defendant goes before the judge in a bail hearing, if he or she cannot pay the full amount, there’s still hope. As long as they can cover 15% of the bail amount, a bail bond company can cover the rest and ensure the defendant’s release.
A bail bondsman is taking quite a risk because, by putting up the money, he or she is guaranteeing the defendant will appear for their scheduled court date.
This creates a unique relationship that should be treated with respect. If you’re the defendant, once your freedom is secured, here are a few do’s and don’ts of bail bonding in North Carolina.
Do Respect Your Bail Bondsman’s Wishes
If your bail bondsman wants you to check in with them every Tuesday morning after 9am, make sure you do it. You may be out from behind bars, but you’re not entirely free.
Simply walk the line, meet the expectations laid out for you, and promise yourself you won’t put a foot wrong throughout the entire process.
Do Clarify the Payment Process
While it’s likely you’ll owe 15% of your bail, you still want to clarify the payment process. Be clear on all due dates, terms, and conditions.
As the defendant, if you fail to pay what you owe, your bail could be revoked. Then, a warrant will be issued for your arrest and you’ll end up behind bars again.
Don’t Get In Any More Trouble
When you’re out on bail, you must be on your best behavior. Do not get arrested again under any circumstances. If you do, your initial bail may be revoked and you could find yourself imprisoned again.
Avoid going out at night or visiting public areas where you might get into trouble. We’d advise you not to drive late at night because even a serious traffic offense could create a major problem for you.
Don’t Miss Your Hearing Date
As soon as you know your hearing date, make sure you’re present and on time. Failure to appear in North Carolina is no small offense.
You could be arrested for violating pretrial release conditions, held in contempt of court, or criminally charged with failure to appear.
If you disrespect the court by showing up late (or not showing up at all), your bail may be revoked and you’ll be on the hook for the entire amount that the bail bond service put up for you.
Bail Bonding Do’s and Don’ts
These are the top four bail bonding do’s and don’ts. It’s pretty clear what’s at stake. So, make sure you understand the process, abide by the rules, respect the price of your freedom, and wait things out until your hearing date.
If you live in Wake County, NC, we can help you or your loved one if you’re faced with an arrest. Here at Absolute Bail Bonds, we provide families with quick, efficient, and discreet bail bonding services.
With over 75,000 satisfied clients, we can help you put the pieces back together again, too. This isn’t the end of the road; it’s an opportunity to make things right again.
