When you find yourself or a loved one in jail, many thoughts run through your mind. You become anxious, worried, and fearful. With all of those emotions, it is very easy to make mistakes when it comes to getting bail. Making mistakes can only lead to more trouble when you are not thinking clearly. If you do not take to right precautions, you or your loved one could wind up back in jail. In order to prevent such occurrences from happening, review the following top common bail bond mistakes that you should avoid making.
Providing a Wrong Address
You may have a good reason to provide a wrong address but stay clear of doing so. It will only do more harm than good. Providing a wrong address can put your bail request at a higher risk of being denied. Double-check the address prior to posting bail to make sure you get it right. Keep in mind that if anything draws a red flag with your paperwork, a bail bond agency could withdraw their assistance.
Traveling While on Bail
If you are told you cannot travel while on bail, then you need to first inform the court or your bail bond company of your intent to travel. If you do not, then it can cause issues. Not showing up for your court dates can jeopardize your case. If you have to travel, let them know how long you will be gone, where you are going, and the best way to reach you. However, the best option is to avoid traveling until your case is settled.
Choosing the Wrong Bail Bond Agency
Be sure to do thorough research before choosing a bail bond agent. Check to see how legitimate your possible bondsman is by asking for their license number. Also, read reviews online to give you a better idea as to what you can expect and to help you make a good decision. Knowing what their reputation is can tell you if they are the right bondsman for you.
Delay in Bail Arrangement
Many people ask for a bail arrangement but do not do it right away. Depending on the offense, the least amount of time for a bail to be given can be about a week. Therefore, the faster you contact a bail bonds agency, the quicker you or your loved one will be out of jail.
Re-Arrest While Out on Bail
Many offenders are re-arrested while they are out on bail. The last thing you or your loved ones wants is to be back in jail. Once out of jail, it is very important to keep a low profile and maintain good behavior. Never risk being arrested for the same offense as the first time. If you or your loved one goes back to jail a second time, the final amounts of legal fees, court fees, etc. will increase. Going back to jail can also ruin your reputation with the court and your bondsman could withdraw your bail if they believe you cannot be trusted.
It is easy to make the wrong decisions during a stressful time. With our team of experienced bail bond agents at Mercy Bail Bonds, we will make sure a bail bond is posted and you or your loved one is released. To find out more information on how we can be of assistance to you, contact us at (727) 856-7775, visit us in person, or fill out our contact form. We will be happy to help you!