Frequently Asked Bondsman Questions
What happens if the defendant misses a court date?
If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bond may be forfeited and a warrant can be issued for their arrest. The indemnitor or guarantor may also be financially responsible for the full bond amount.
Can I get my premium back if the charges are dropped?
No. The premium paid for a bail bond is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the case.
Do I need collateral for every bond?
Not always. Collateral requirements depend on the bond amount, the charges, and the defendant’s history. Some bonds can be written without collateral.
Can a bail bond be transferred to another bonding company?
No. Once a bond is posted, it cannot be transferred to another bail bond company.
What is a bond forfeiture?
A bond forfeiture occurs when the defendant does not appear in court and the court demands payment of the full bond amount.
Can a bail bond be revoked?
Yes. A judge can revoke a bond if the defendant violates bond conditions or commits another offense.
What are bond conditions?
Bond conditions are rules set by the court that the defendant must follow, such as travel restrictions, no-contact orders, or regular check-ins.
Can I bail someone out of jail if I live out of state?
Yes. Many bonding companies can work with out-of-state indemnitors using electronic paperwork and payment options.
What information is needed to post a bail bond?
Typically required information includes the defendant’s full name, date of birth, jail location, booking number, and the bail amount.
Is there a payment plan available?
In some cases, payment plans may be available depending on the bond amount and approval by the bonding company.
What happens to collateral after the case is finished?
Once the case is fully resolved and all court obligations are met, collateral is returned to the indemnitor.
Can the defendant leave the state while out on bond?
Only if the court approves. Traveling without permission can result in bond revocation.
Is there a payment plan available?
In some cases, payment plans may be available depending on the bond amount and approval by the bonding company.
What happens to collateral after the case is finished?
Once the case is fully resolved and all court obligations are met, collateral is returned to the indemnitor.
Can the defendant leave the state while out on bond?
Only if the court approves. Traveling without permission can result in bond revocation.
What is a bail bond?
An officer of the courts that will ensure the defendant appears in court.
How does a bail bond work?
The bail bonding company agrees to pay the full amount of a defendants bail to the court in exchange for a 10-15% non-refundable premium of the total bail amount.
How can I pay for a bail bond?
Cash, Check or Credit
Why use a bail bond company instead of paying cash?
Key factors are fast, easy and affordability. A bonding company will provide expertise throughout the duration of the case(s).
How much does a bail bond cost?
The Tennessee premium fee is 10%. The out-of-state premium fee is 15%
How is the bail determined?
Judges determine the amount on several factors, including but not limited to nature of the crime, defendants ties to the community and previous history.
How long does it take to be released from jail?
Depending on the staff availability at the jail, this process can take 2-12 hours.
How does the collateral process work?
Collateral can be anything considered “of value” that can secure the bond. It is used as an incentive to ensure the appearance of the defendant. Collateral is returned once the case(s) has been adjudicated.
Who is an indemnitor/guarantor?
Also referred to as “co-signer”. This is another person’s legal obligation/responsibility, in which will sign the bail bond on behalf of the defendant.
What should I do if I have questions after the bond is posted?
You should contact the bail bond company directly. They can explain court dates, conditions, and next steps throughout the case.
