How the Bail Industry Became a $2 Billion Business

Law

After an arrest, it is hard to find people who will have your back. Often, the closest friends and relatives tend to back off and avoid the situation. However, your family and the bail bond business will always have your back.

Rise of Arrests:

Incarcerated populations in the US have risen seven times in recent decades, as is evident from overcrowded jails and underfunded prison facilities. Between 1999 and 2014, incarceration rose primarily due to the undertrial populations. They comprise those stuck in custody before their trial due to financial constraints, which prevent them from posting bail. According to the ACLU of California, hefty bails prevent the pursuit of justice. Marginalized populations are unable to meet these requirements and are, as a result, ostracized due to serving time even if they are innocent.

How Bail Works:

One opting for bail has two options at hand. The first is to appeal for a bail reduction, which is a lengthy process with a low success rate. The more preferred option, trusted by hundreds, is utilizing the services of a bail bondsman.

  • California has about 3,200 licensed bail agents available 24×7 to meet the demands of bailees. Trustworthy and experienced bail bonds San Diego has several options available, including fast-tracking of bail applications, personalized payment plans, and free attorney referrals.
  • These agents deal with different cases regularly, so no allegation or circumstance is foreign to them. Furthermore, the legal guidelines and bail conditions are explained to avoid future complications.
  • At just 8-15% of the bond fee, the bond agent not only completes the entire process for you but also walks you through it. Their excellent relations with court and detention center officials guarantee bail within hours of initial contact.

Requisite Funds:

One may wonder how the industry possesses the funds required to guarantee bails for so many clients. In reality, these bail bond businesses have well-established, deep connections with insurance companies that underwrite the bail agreements. Their contracts with these corporate institutes ensure that even if one doesn’t turn up to trial, the bail businesses are covered for any forfeitures or losses incurred. In the US, bail is often excessive, even for incidents considered misdemeanors or low-level infractions. Not only bail but court fees and fines also constitute a financial burden.

In 2018-20, the median bail bond amount was equivalent to 8 months of income for the typical detainee. Of course, this financial hardship is reduced by bond services. Recently, government support has helped expand these top bail businesses, backed by the American Legislative Exchange Council and the American Bail Coalition. These pro-bail groups ensure fair practices and consumer rights in the industry.

Rest assured, you are guaranteed a seamless experience with bail bond agents. It is one of the few billion-dollar industries with innumerable positive testimonials, owing to its lack of predatory business practices and genuine concern for the clients. Moreover, the Bail Bond Consumer Bill of Rights is made available before signing a contract so that a client is well aware of the legalities involved, which ensures a fair transaction.