Three Tips To Follow When You Need To Sign Collateral Over To A Bail Bondsman

Getting arrested and having to sign a contract with a bail bondsman to get out of jail can be a very hectic and stressful process. Fortunately, as long as you abide by all the conditions set by the court and by your bail bondsman, you shouldn't have any problems with getting re-arrested before your trial. When you need to sign collateral over to a bail bondsman in order to adhere to a contract, make sure to follow these three tips.

Take A Survey Of Valuable Items In Your Home Before You Consider Your Car

You'll be able to use both physical and non-physical assets as collateral on your bail bond contract. Therefore, even if you don't have any jewelry lying around your home, think about any stocks or credit cards you have on hand. If your credit is good enough, you might even be able to take out a loan from a bank just to pay off the bail bondsman's fee.

Putting up your car as collateral isn't a terrible thing to do if you have no other choice besides remaining in jail, but remember that all it takes is a single missed court appointment for you to effectively forfeit ownership of it. Even if the bail bondsman doesn't demand that you hand over the car upon signing the contract (because you need it for a work commute or for other errands), this fact is bound to make you very stressed out.

Have The Collateral Be Something You Don't Need For A Few Months

It's a much better idea to choose collateral that you could forfeit ownership of tomorrow without being much worse for wear. Something like a spare ATV or boat you only use for recreational purposes is ideal here. Failing that, you could put up a few of the more valuable pieces of furniture in your home.

Save All The Paperwork And Bring It To Your Court Appearances

Whether or not you're normally a very organized person, it's important not to lose a single piece of paper given to you by either the court or by your bail bondsman. This is to ensure that you'll be able to faithfully observe all the conditions set by either party. Even if you find out that you unwittingly violated a condition at your next court appearance (such as a condition not to leave the state), the court is more likely to go easy on you for the violation if you at least remembered to bring all your paperwork.

The same is true when it comes to the contract with your bail bondsman. Keep all the paperwork and follow it as dutifully as you can so that the bondsman will never find it a prudent decision to take away your car or home before the conclusion of your trial. For more information, contact local professionals like STAT Bail Bonds LLC.

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