How to Get a Bail Bond for a Friend

If a defendant can't afford to post the full amount of his bail, a bail bond agent can post the bail instead, charging a non-refundable fee that's usually around ten percent of the bail. This allows the defendant to get out of jail quickly while awaiting trial. The easiest way for a prisoner to get a bail bond may be to call a friend or relative to make the arrangements with the bail bond agent, though a prisoner can also call a bail bond agent directly. The jail may provide a list of agents without recommending any in particular.

Instructions

1. Gather the information you'll need when speaking to the bail bond agent: the full name of the defendant, the date of birth, what jail he's in, when he was arrested and on what charges, and the amount of bail required. If the bail agent asks someone to co-sign the bond, you or another friend of the defendant will need to. The main risk of co-signing is if the defendant fails to appear as required by law, the co-signer can be responsible for the full amount of the forfeited bail.

2. Call a bail bond agent who's licensed in your state. You may want to contact several and choose whichever seems easiest to work with. The bail bond agent should be willing to explain and help you with the process of posting bail.

3. Wait for the bail bond agent to double-check information on the defendant. The bond agent is absorbing the risk of losing the entire amount of the bail if the defendant fails to appear, so he may want to check the defendant's past record.

4. Agree to the cost and conditions of the bail bond that the agent offers, try to negotiate or shop around to other agents. The bail bond agent will state the cost of the bond and explain any collateral or co-signer requirement. Ask about additional fees such as phone calls or mileage to the jail, and also inquire about payment methods, which may include credit card, check or cash. Make sure you understand all the costs involved and who will pay them. While bail itself is generally refundable if you choose to post the full amount, a bail bond isn't refundable even if the defendant appears before the court as required. If the bail bond is more than you can afford, you can ask if the agent will offer a payment plan or possibly come down on the cost.

5. Arrange to meet with the agent and any other co-signers at the jail where the defendant is held. After the papers are signed, the agent will post the full bail, allowing the defendant to be released.

6. Make sure the defendant knows the next time that she will be required in court and has all the information necessary, including the location of the specific courtroom. The defendant, co-signer and bond agent will all have various liabilities if the defendant doesn't appear.

References

• Bannock County Courthouse: So You Think You Want to Bail Someone Out of Jail