What Is Needed to Become a Bail Bondsman?
A bail bondman is someone authorized to act as an agent for a person who has been arrested and has already had a bail hearing. A bail bondsman's job is to ensure that a client who is released on bail returns to face the charges filed against him.
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Considerations
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First of all, because a bail bondsman typically deals with characters that act outside the law, it is important to become familiar with the characteristics of certain types of criminals. It is important to learn the physical and financial dangers created by dealing with these types of individuals.
Licensure
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In order to secure a bail bondsman license, an application has to be completed that furnishes a name, age, residence, occupation, financial standing (including assets and liabilities), consent for a full background check and a fee for processing the application. Persons who have been convicted of certain crimes as well as those who do not possess the financial backing to qualify will not be issued a license.
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Coursework
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Coursework in criminal justice and law enforcement might be required as part of the bail bondsman application. If any coursework is required, most classes can be taken at community colleges or as part of an adult continuing education program. Fees for tuition and books vary with each program.
Surety Bond
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Next, obtain a surety bond. This is what protects your personal assets in the event a client jumps bail and fails to appear in court. In the event a client does not appear in court, it is the responsibility of the bondman to pay the bail amount in full. The only way to recoup that money is to find the bail jumper and return them to the court.
Insurance Funds
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Build up the funds required by the insurance agency that is writing the surety bond. This sum of cash is the insurance company's insurance that the bondsman intends to follow through and perform the duties of the contract. This amount of cash will vary based on several factors, including the financial stability of the bondsman, the insurance company writing the policy and the amount of the surety bond being written.
Apprenticeship
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Lastly, obtain a job with a reputable bail bonding company and gain experience under the tutelage of experienced bondsmen. There is no better training than on-the-job training in this type of work. Learning from experienced professionals will ensure that you receive the best training possible.
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