Paying A Bondsman When Found Not Guilty?

Today’s bail related question comes from Yahoo! Answers.

Question:  When I was arrested, I was bailed out a week later with the help of a bail bondsman.  My dad  is paying $400 per month on my bail of $15,000.  Does my dad still have to pay the bail bondsman even if I am found not guilty?  It is important to me to have a better understanding of this because I have put my dad in a position that is not easy for him.

Answer:  Unfortunately,  regardless of the outcome of your case, the money is still owed to the bondsman.  By law, the bondsman’s fee is earned as soon as you are released from jail. The bondsman cannot legally give you or your dad a refund.

The cost of bail bonds in California is typically 10% of the full bail amount in most states, so it is likely your dad has arranged for a payment plan on a fee of $1,500.  This fee is paid so that you can remain out of jail while you await your trial.

It is important that your dad continues to pay so that it does not result in collections issues.  In addition, if collateral was used, not paying can also result in the forfeiture of the bail collateral. It may be best for you dad to contact the bail bond agency if he is having trouble with making the payments, they may be able to adjust the amount he is paying monthly.

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One response to “Paying A Bondsman When Found Not Guilty?”

1. bail bonds las vegas writes:
   

   We get clients all the time who ask us this. People just need to realize that the premium is paid for our service in getting their loved one out of jail regardless of the outcome. We cannot charge more premium if they’re found guilty for instance. Likewise we cannot refund people’s money when they pay the full amount upfront. Payment plans are done as a courtesy for customers. Can you imagine how long a bondsman would stay in business if we operated like that?

   @ November 28th, 2011 at 08:43