3 Questions To Ask Before Deciding To Bail Your Friend Out Of Jail

If you received a call in the middle of the night from your best friend who was arrested, they may have asked you to bail them out of jail. If this is the first time you have ever had to do this, you may be uncertain about the process and legalities. If so, ask the following three questions to the bail bondsman and yourself before making a decision.

What Type Of Collateral Is Needed?

Before you drive to a 24-hour bail bonds service, call and ask them about the type of collateral you will need to bail your friend out of jail. The collateral accepted could vary, depending on the company itself or what percentage of the court-ordered bail is required.

If the bail amount is relatively small, you may be able to put up the title of your vehicle as collateral for the bail loan. However, if your friend is facing serious charges, you may have to put up the deed to your home to cover the bail in case your friend misses their court date.

Are There Any Stipulations To The Court's Bail Order?

Along with finding out about collateral, you should also ask if there are any stipulations added by the court to the bail order. While the stipulation may only be that your friend shows up to their court appearance, there could be others added, depending on the charges.

For example, if your friend is facing drug charges, the court may also order that they attend drug classes or a medical evaluation. If any one of these appointments is missed, you could be held liable for the full amount of the loan to the bail company.

How Much Do You Trust Your Friend?

After finding out the details of your friend's charges and bail order, you need to ask yourself how much you trust them. Since you are signing your name on the contract and putting up your property as collateral, you are responsible for anything they may do.

If you have any doubt that your friend will attend their court appearances and appointments, you may want to decline to keep from having to pay the full amount of bail. However, if you know your friend will not let you down, you can then consider helping them out.

After answering the above questions, you may decide to go ahead and post bail to your friend. If so, contact a 24-hour bail bonds company who can answer any additional questions and walk you through the process of filling out the paperwork required to get your friend out of jail.

Reach out to a business like Howlnout Bail Bonds for more information.