The bail bond business has been around for many years. The main function for bail is to allow a defendant to get out of jail while waiting for trial.
Today the importance of having a bail system is more vital than ever due to the overcrowding of jails that all communities are faced with. When a defendant is released on bail he is then the custody of the bail bond agent. This custody is much like an extension of the jail, and there are conditions to the bond that the defendant must adhere to or the bail bond agent may place them back into the jail.
It is up to the bail bond agent which bonds he will write and which he will decline. He is not under any obligation to write a bond he does not feel comfortable with.
If you are planning to start your own bail bond business there are several factors to consider.
First is the location - A large city is generally easier than a small town to get started in. Large cities are less likely to "stone-wall" A new bond agent, and in general they have more crime. If you are from a small town, you may have to cover several counties and be willing to travel 20 miles or so to build a business.
Medium sized towns (50,000 - 100,000 population.) With a sophisticated legal justice system are alright. You must keep in mind that it will take you a while to become established wherever you start your business. Also, each area has its own particular way of doing things, and you will have to learn the local procedures. These sometimes differ greatly from county to county.
If you conduct your business honestly, work with the system, and treat everybody with respect - hard work and perseverance will pay off. Always conduct yourself like a professional. Never go into a court room dressed in jeans and a T-shirt and expect a judge to think of you as having respect for the court. I have been a bail bond agent for over 20 years and have never appeared before a judge without a tie and jacket. I strongly suggest you sit in several court rooms and observe the proceedings to learn how to conduct yourself.
Although there is nothing that can take the place of experience, this is the only book I know of that will guide you through the steps of getting a license and trying to provide you with guidelines on how to write bonds and conduct a bail bond business.
To those who decide to choose a profession in the bail bond business, I would like to welcome you. You will find the choice will provide you with an exciting and a challenging career, and if you operate your business professionally and honestly, you will find it financially rewarding.
I trust you will also find your career in bail bonds as enjoyable as I have since 1970.
Larry B. Blatt.
Author/Publisher