Common Misconceptions About Cash Bonds

Stacks of cash against a grey background in El Paso.

The legal system alone is complicated, let alone the bail bond system. The bail bond system is often susceptible to various myths and misconceptions. Fortunately, our team at Freedom Bail Bond in El Paso is here to help clarify the process of how bail bonds work and dispel common myths.

If you’re in need of financial assistance, our bail bond agents are available 24/7. Contact Freedom Bail Bonds in El Paso online or call (915) 877-9293 to learn more about how we can help you!

Myth 1: Bails Can Only Be Paid in Cash

Many people believe that bail can only be paid in cash bonds, making it difficult for defendants without immediate access to large sums of money to secure their release. However, various forms of payment are accepted within the court. This may include a cashier’s check, money order, and even credit card payments in some jurisdictions. In a scenario where a defendant cannot afford bail, they can use the property as collateral or seek out the services of our bail bond agents at Freedom Bail Bonds in El Paso. Our agents can post bail on a defendant’s behalf in exchange for a fee.

Myth 2: Posting Bail Means You’re Free

Another common misconception is that once bail is posted, the defendant is completely free and absolved of all charges. However, posting bail does not mean the defendant is free from the charges against them. Defendants are required to appear at all scheduled court dates and comply with any additional conditions set by the court. An example would be forfeiting travel and staying within the local area. 

Myth 3: Bail Bond Agents Keep All the Money

Some believe that bail bond agents keep all the money paid to them once the defendant makes their court appearances. The truth is that bail bond agents charge a non-refundable fee, typically 10-15% of the total bail amount, for their services. The rest of the bail amount is returned to whoever posted it once the defendant has fulfilled their court obligations, regardless of the outcome of the case. 

Myth 4: Bail Bond Agents and Bounty Hunters Are the Same

There is a misconception that bail bond agents and bounty hunters are the same profession. However, bail bond agents provide the financial means to secure a defendant’s release from jail. Bounty hunters, also known as fugitive recovery agents, are independent contractors who are hired by bail bond agents to track down and apprehend defendants who have skipped bail.

Myth 5: Bail and Bonds Are the Same

Many people use the terms “bail” and “bond” interchangeably, thinking they mean the same thing. Bail and bonds are related but not identical. Bail is the amount of money set by the court that a defendant must pay to be released from jail while awaiting trial. A bond is a financial guarantee provided by a third party, such as a bail bond agent, ensuring the defendant’s appearance in court.

Get Cash Bonds in El Paso with Freedom Bail Bond!

Got into trouble? That’s okay. Our bail bond agents are here to help. We’re open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Contact us online or call (915) 877-9293 for help today and to learn more about our cash bonds!