What Is Collateral?
What is Required To For Bail Bonds?
Collateral is something of value such as a car, piece of property or jewelry. When it comes to California bail bonds, collateral is generally in the form of California real property such as a house.
When using a home to secure a bail bond, the bondsman will place a lien on the house. Documents related to the lien and the collateral will be notarized and will include large text document stating that the signer understands that their house is on the line. Bail bond collateral should be carefully considered.
When someone seeks out the assistance of a bail bonds company to help get a friend or family member out of jail, there is a chance the bondsman might request collateral. Ultimately, collateral is requested as an assurance that the defendant will meet the terms and conditions of the bail bond. So long as the requirements outlined in the contract are met, meaning the defendant appears for court as required, the collateral will be returned to the owner when defendant’s case is complete.
On the other hand, should the defendant fail to appear for court proceedings and cannot be located by the bondsman, the collateral will be considered to be forfeited.
No Collateral Bail Bonds
Collateral on bail bonds is generally at the discretion of the bail bondsman. The higher the bail, the more likely collateral will be required. Some bail companies require collateral for all bonds. There are, however, California bondsmen that provide their clients “signature bonds”, in which the person’s signature on the contract is a sufficient enough promise that its terms and conditions will be met.
If you find yourself needing the help of a California bondsman, be sure to ask them any questions you may have before you sign any paperwork. Ask if they require collateral and if so, what types of collateral you’ll need to post in order to secure the bond. If you don’t want to put your house on the line as collateral, look for a bondsman that offers no collateral bail bonds.
At the end of the day keep in mind that the bail bondsman you choose to work with should be someone who understands your situation. You should get the sense they will be able to assist you in navigating the bail bonds process, can help have your friend or family member get out of jail quickly, and will do so with compassion. If you don’t feel the person you’re speaking with is best suited to help, try calling someone else.
If you have questions about no collateral bail options in California, call Tonya Page Bail Bonds now: 1-877-861-3761.
Updated: 12/05/2011