Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
Got Questions? We’re Here to Help. At our company, we’re committed to anticipating and addressing any questions you may have about our products and services. We understand that exploring your options can sometimes feel overwhelming, which is why we've created a helpful list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) and clear, straightforward answers all in one place. Whether you're looking for details about the bail process, your responsibilities as a co-signer, or how our services work, we've got you covered.
What is a Bail Bond?A bail bond is a financial guarantee provided to the court to ensure that a defendant will appear for all required court proceedings while their case is pending. When someone is arrested and charged with a crime, the court may set a bail amount essentially a form of insurance that the defendant will return for future hearings. If the defendant cannot afford the full bail amount, a bail bond agent can step in to post a bond on their behalf. In return, the defendant's loved one(s) typically pays a non-refundable fee to the agent. Once the bail bond is accepted by the court, the defendant is released from jail and can remain in the community while preparing for their case. This system strikes a balance between the presumption of innocence and the court's need to ensure the defendant's return, helping individuals maintain their responsibilities at home and work while navigating the legal process.
What does it mean when I sign the contract for the defendant to be released? When you sign a bail bond contract to secure a defendant's release from jail, you are entering into a legally binding agreement with the bail bond agency. This contract—often referred to as an indemnity agreement makes you the indemnitor or co-signer, meaning you are taking monetary responsibility for ensuring the defendant appears at all required court dates. Your responsibility doesn’t end once the defendant is released. You remain legally and financially accountable until the case is fully resolved. This includes making sure the defendant follows all court conditions and attends every scheduled hearing. If they fail to appear, you may be responsible for paying the full bail amount and any additional recovery costs. Once the court case is concluded whether the outcome is guilty, not guilty, or dismissed your obligation under the bond is officially discharged, and the agreement ends.
What age is a person considered an adult in NC?In North Carolina, a person is legally considered an adult at the age of 18. This is the age at which individuals gain full legal rights and responsibilities, such as the ability to vote, enter contracts, and be held fully accountable in civil and criminal matters. However, when it comes to criminal offenses, North Carolina has specific laws regarding juveniles. While individuals under 18 are generally considered minors, those aged 16 and 17 can be prosecuted as adults for certain crimes, depending on the severity of the offense and the discretion of the court. This is particularly relevant in felony cases, where a 16 or 17-year-old may be transferred to adult court. Parents or legal guardians are responsible for minors until they turn 18, but the criminal justice system may begin handling serious offenses differently starting at age 16. BOND RATES "HOW MUCH DO I PAY" "HOW MUCH DO I PUT DWN" Under North Carolina General Statute, no bail bond company can charge more than 15% of the total bond amount. This is the legal maximum rate across the state. At our company, we offer flexible options while staying fully compliant with the law: Standard Down Payments: Most companies require at least 8% down.
Our Advantage: We allow as little as 5% down on select bonds, along with an interest-free payment plan.Important Note: When a payment plan is used, no discount is applied. The total fee must remain within the 15% maximum, regardless of how the payments are structured.
This is a true loan, and the full balance must be paid—even if: The case is dismissed. The defendant is sent to prison. The defendant is taken into federal custody. We believe in transparency and helping you navigate this process with confidence. If you have questions about your specific situation, we’re here to help. How much of the bond money do I get back after the bond case is closed & reach a judgement?Short answer: Not usually. When you work with a bail bond company, you’re paying a non-refundable fee (called a premium) that’s usually 10% to 15% of the total bond amount. This payment is for the service of securing the defendant’s release. It’s not a deposit, and you don’t get it back after the case is closed.
Example:If the bond is $10,000 and you pay 10% ($1,000) to the bail company, that $1,000 is the company’s fee. It’s earned upon the release of the defendant and won’t be refunded, even if all court dates are met and the case is dismissed.
When Do You Get Money Back?You only get bond money back if you personally pay the full bond amount directly to the court or a magistrate (called a cash bond). In that case, if the defendant shows up to all court appearances and the case is resolved, the court will refund the full amount (minus possible court fees or fines). So, the difference is: Bonding Company = Pay a fee, no refund. Cash Bond to Court = Full refund if all conditions are met. Is a defendant released on bail really in custody of the posting Bail Agency?Yes, but not in the way most people think. When a bail bond company posts a bond, we take legal responsibility for the defendant’s appearance in court. This means that while the defendant is physically free, we are still considered in the legal custody of the bonding agency.
Here’s what that means: The bail agency holds the authority to monitor and set conditions for the defendant’s release. If the defendant fails to follow those conditions (such as regular check-ins, maintaining communication, or staying within allowed travel boundaries), the agency has the legal right to revoke the bond.This could lead to the defendant being arrested and returned to jail. The agency is vouching for the defendant’s behavior, so their freedom comes with rules. It’s not total freedom it’s conditional release under supervision. Do I need collateral & what can I use for collateral?It depends on the case. Collateral is sometimes required to secure a bail bond, especially when: The bond amount is high. The defendant has prior failures to appear. The risk of flight is considered greater. There's a limited financial history or lower income rate for the cosigner qualifications. Examples of acceptable collateral include Real estate (homes or land), Vehicles, Jewelry, Bank accounts. Other valuable property. However, not all bonds require collateral. Many bonds can be approved with strong cosigners, proof of income, or a sufficient down payment. At our agency, we review each case individually and aim to offer flexible, fair options and in some cases, no collateral is needed at all.
📞 Contact us directly to review your situation — we're here to work with you.
What happens if a person is released on Bail, but the case is dismissed? Do I still owe the premium?Yes. Once a bail bond is posted and the defendant is released from custody, the bail company has earned their premium regardless of how the case turns out. Even if the case is: Dismissed, Dropped by the District Attorney, Resolved with probation or ends in conviction or sentencing. 👉 The premium still must be paid in full.
Think of it like this: Hiring a bail bond agency is like hiring a service and the service is performed the moment the person is released. Just like you still pay off a car loan if your car gets totaled, you must fulfill the financial agreement made with the bail company. If you're on a payment plan, that agreement remains valid and enforceable until the full balance is paid regardless of the outcome in court. This structure is set by law, not the bail agency, and it ensures fairness and consistency across all bond transactions.
What happens if the defendant is put back in jail for an added charge or has been surrendered for violating their bond, do I still owe the balance of the outstanding money owed?Yes, you are still responsible for the full balance. When a defendant is: Re-arrested on new charges, surrendered for violating the terms of their bond, it does not cancel the bail agreement or erase the remaining balance owed. Once a Memorandum of Agreement (or any bail contract) is signed, it becomes a legally binding financial obligation like a loan. The bail company has already provided the service of securing the defendant's release, and that premium is earned in full once the bond is posted.
📝 Note: The bond is not refunded or voided simply because the defendant ends up back in custody.
If your financial situation changes, most companies, including ours, may be willing to work with you. You might qualify for: Extended payment terms OR Lower monthly payments. However, that requires a new agreement signed by all parties involved. Bottom line: The original debt remains in place unless officially renegotiated in writing.
What are the 7 reasons a defendant may be placed back in jail by a NC Bail Bond AgentAccording to North Carolina Law, a bail bond agent (surety) has the legal right to arrest and surrender a defendant back to jail — without refund of any bond fees — for any of the following reasons:
1. Failure to Pay Premium: The defendant & the cosigners willfully fail to pay or stops making agreed payments toward the bond premium.
2. Change of Address Without Notice: The defendant changes their residence without notifying the bonding company in advance.
3. Evading or Hiding from the Surety: The defendant intentionally hides or avoids contact with the bail bond agent.
4. Leaving the State Without Permission: Traveling or relocating outside of North Carolina without prior written permission from the surety is a direct violation.
5. Violating Any Conditions Set by the Surety: This includes failure to check in, breaking curfews, or not adhering to any rules or terms set by the bonding company.
6. Lying or Failing to Disclose Important Legal History: The defendant fails to disclose any previous felony convictions (within 10 years), pending charges, or past failures to appear in court — or provides false information.
7. Providing False Identification or Using an Alias: If the defendant gives false personal information, fake ID, or uses an alias during the bonding process, the bond is subject to immediate revocation. (1963, c. 1225, s. 5; 1975, c. 619, s. 1; 1998?211, s. 30; 2001?269, s. 2.3; 2007?399, s. 1.) 💡Remember: Once a bond is revoked, the bail agent can lawfully detain and surrender the defendant to the jail, and you’re still responsible for the financial balance unless a new agreement is made.
What if the person I bail out does not show up on their assigned NC court date?If the defendant fails to appear (FTA) for their assigned court date, the following actions will or may occur: A Warrant Will Be Issued. The court can issue a bench warrant for their arrest, and they may be charged with Failure to Appear, which can lead to additional penalties.
The Notice Will Be Sent to the Insurance Company, Bail Agency & Cosigner labeled as a Bond Forfeiture Notice.The bail bond company and any listed cosigners will be notified of the missed court date and held accountable for the bond. You (the Cosigner) Become Responsible for the Full Bond Amount. If the defendant cannot be located or surrendered within the court’s grace period, the full bond amount becomes due, and the bail company can take legal action to recover that money.
What Are Your Options as a Cosigner?✅ Contact the Bail Bond Company Immediately. We can assist with locating the defendant, rescheduling the court date if allowed, or guiding you through the surrender process.
✅ Help the Defendant Surrender Voluntarily. Turning themselves in may help reduce additional legal consequences and protect your financial liability. In most cases we will rewrite the new bond for the FTA and the defendant will not see the inside of the jail.
✅ Work Toward Reinstating the Bond. In some cases, the court may allow the bond to be reinstated, but this usually requires fast action and attorney involvement with getting the OFA, FTA & BOND FORFEITURE "RECALLED".
⏰ Time is critical. The longer the defendant stays missing, the more at risk you and your collateral & OR you will be paying the full amount of the bond & there will not be a payment plan with the court. What if the person I bail out gets re-arrested in a different county or state & is out on bond in NC?If the defendant you bonded with in North Carolina is re-arrested in a different county or another state, this is a serious situation, and action must be taken quickly.
🚨 Here’s What You Should Do Immediately: Contact the Bail Bond Company Right Away! As your bonding agency, we need to be notified immediately. We can review the terms of your agreement, communicate with the District Attorney if needed, and help protect you from further liability. Understand That Your Original Bond Is Still Active. Until the case in North Carolina is resolved or officially exonerated, the bond you signed remains in effect even if the defendant is in custody somewhere else. Depending on the circumstances, your bonding company can petition the court or submit a request to withdraw the bond, but this must be handled properly through legal channels. However, it's not always granted by the DA's Office, and they may pay for the defendant to be returned on a WRIT. Be Prepared for Transfer or Extradition Delays. If the other authority does not release the defendant or delays transfer, it may increase your financial risk and limit the bonding agency’s ability to take immediate custody.
Important Note: Communication is key. You are our client, and our contract is with you, not the defendant. The sooner you reach out to us, the more we can do to help protect your interest and avoid a Bond Forfeiture Notice. Are there any additional legal fees or charges I need to pay?Yes, there may be. When you sign a bail bond, you are entering into a legal and financial agreement, and there are certain situations where additional charges or legal responsibilities can arise: 🔻 Common Situations That Can Lead to Extra Costs: A Bond Forfeiture Notice. If the defendant fails to appear in court and is not surrendered or returned to custody within the allotted time, the court may issue a forfeiture, and you may owe the full bond amount.
Legal Judgment: If the bond is forfeited and the defendant is not recovered, the court via the insurance company and or the bail bonding agent can enter a civil judgment against the cosigner (you), making you legally responsible to pay the entire face value of the bond. Court or Administrative Fees, in some cases, there may be court-imposed fees related to processing forfeitures or judgments.
How to Avoid These Costs: Ensure the defendant appears at every court date. Keep regular communication with the bond agency. Report any violations or suspicious activity immediately. Understand and follow the terms of your consigner agreement.
Bottom Line: While the bail premium is the most common cost, failing to meet your obligations as a cosigner can lead to significant legal and financial consequences.
Should I get an attorney to request a bail reduction?Yes, it’s often a wise decision. If a case has been filed at the court by the District Attorney's office and the bail amount is too high for you to afford, then you may want to seek the advice of an attorney regarding possible bail reduction. Even if you’re working with a bail bond agency, the bond amount set by the court is outside of our control. If the amount is too high, an attorney is your best route to requesting a reduction. Attorneys know how to file the proper motions and advocate for a lower bail. We are not allowed to act as an attorney!
Can a Bail Bond Company refer the Defendant to an attorney to handle his/her case in NC?No! Under North Carolina law, a bail bond company cannot legally refer or recommend a specific attorney to a defendant. This restriction exists to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure the legal process remains fair and unbiased. Just search online for attorneys who specialize in the Defendant's type of charges. Use online directories NC State Bar Lawyer Directory, NC Legal Aid Services or contact your local public defender’s office if you cannot afford an attorney.
Can you post a bond for my son/daughter who is in jail for child support?No, unfortunately we cannot. Child support related arrests fall under civil law, not criminal law and bail bond companies are not allowed to post bonds for civil matters such as unpaid child support. Child support cases require a full cash bond to be paid directly to the court or magistrate usually in the exact amount owed. Bail agents are not authorized to issue surety bonds for these types of cases. You will need to speak with the Clerk of Court or child support enforcement office to handle payment and secure release. DO NTO GIVE YOUR MONEY TO A BAIL BOND AGENT FOR CHILD SUPPORT MATTERS! HOW DO I BECOME A BAILBONDS WOMAN/MAN?If you’re interested in becoming a licensed bail bond agent, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started in North Carolina:
✅ Step 1: Find a Local Bail Bond Company Willing to Sponsor YouMost new agents begin by training under a licensed bail bond agency.
The agency you train with will guide you through the licensing process and may offer you hands-on experience while you study.
✅ Step 2: Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Education (PLE)You must take and pass a 20-hour Pre-Licensing Education course through an approved provider (such as NC Bail Academy or other certified schools).
✅ Step 3: Pass a Background CheckYou must undergo and pass a criminal background check. Certain convictions may disqualify you.
✅ Step 4: Apply for Your License Through the North Carolina Department of Insurance (NCDOI)Submit your application online at www.ncdoi.gov
You’ll pay an application fee and submit necessary documentation, including fingerprints.
✅ Step 5: Take and Pass the State Licensing ExamThe exam is administered through Pearson VUE.
Once you pass, you'll receive your license to begin work as a Surety Bail Bondsman or Runner (assistant to a bondsman).
⚠️ Important Requirements: Must be at least 18 years old, must have a high school diploma or GED. Must be a legal U.S. resident, and must not have any disqualifying criminal history.
Interested?If you're serious about a career in bail bonding and have the commitment to help people while working under legal and time-sensitive conditions, contact a local agency (like ours) to get started.
What is a Bail Bond?A bail bond is a financial guarantee provided to the court to ensure that a defendant will appear for all required court proceedings while their case is pending. When someone is arrested and charged with a crime, the court may set a bail amount essentially a form of insurance that the defendant will return for future hearings. If the defendant cannot afford the full bail amount, a bail bond agent can step in to post a bond on their behalf. In return, the defendant's loved one(s) typically pays a non-refundable fee to the agent. Once the bail bond is accepted by the court, the defendant is released from jail and can remain in the community while preparing for their case. This system strikes a balance between the presumption of innocence and the court's need to ensure the defendant's return, helping individuals maintain their responsibilities at home and work while navigating the legal process.
What does it mean when I sign the contract for the defendant to be released? When you sign a bail bond contract to secure a defendant's release from jail, you are entering into a legally binding agreement with the bail bond agency. This contract—often referred to as an indemnity agreement makes you the indemnitor or co-signer, meaning you are taking monetary responsibility for ensuring the defendant appears at all required court dates. Your responsibility doesn’t end once the defendant is released. You remain legally and financially accountable until the case is fully resolved. This includes making sure the defendant follows all court conditions and attends every scheduled hearing. If they fail to appear, you may be responsible for paying the full bail amount and any additional recovery costs. Once the court case is concluded whether the outcome is guilty, not guilty, or dismissed your obligation under the bond is officially discharged, and the agreement ends.
What age is a person considered an adult in NC?In North Carolina, a person is legally considered an adult at the age of 18. This is the age at which individuals gain full legal rights and responsibilities, such as the ability to vote, enter contracts, and be held fully accountable in civil and criminal matters. However, when it comes to criminal offenses, North Carolina has specific laws regarding juveniles. While individuals under 18 are generally considered minors, those aged 16 and 17 can be prosecuted as adults for certain crimes, depending on the severity of the offense and the discretion of the court. This is particularly relevant in felony cases, where a 16 or 17-year-old may be transferred to adult court. Parents or legal guardians are responsible for minors until they turn 18, but the criminal justice system may begin handling serious offenses differently starting at age 16. BOND RATES "HOW MUCH DO I PAY" "HOW MUCH DO I PUT DWN" Under North Carolina General Statute, no bail bond company can charge more than 15% of the total bond amount. This is the legal maximum rate across the state. At our company, we offer flexible options while staying fully compliant with the law: Standard Down Payments: Most companies require at least 8% down.
Our Advantage: We allow as little as 5% down on select bonds, along with an interest-free payment plan.Important Note: When a payment plan is used, no discount is applied. The total fee must remain within the 15% maximum, regardless of how the payments are structured.
This is a true loan, and the full balance must be paid—even if: The case is dismissed. The defendant is sent to prison. The defendant is taken into federal custody. We believe in transparency and helping you navigate this process with confidence. If you have questions about your specific situation, we’re here to help. How much of the bond money do I get back after the bond case is closed & reach a judgement?Short answer: Not usually. When you work with a bail bond company, you’re paying a non-refundable fee (called a premium) that’s usually 10% to 15% of the total bond amount. This payment is for the service of securing the defendant’s release. It’s not a deposit, and you don’t get it back after the case is closed.
Example:If the bond is $10,000 and you pay 10% ($1,000) to the bail company, that $1,000 is the company’s fee. It’s earned upon the release of the defendant and won’t be refunded, even if all court dates are met and the case is dismissed.
When Do You Get Money Back?You only get bond money back if you personally pay the full bond amount directly to the court or a magistrate (called a cash bond). In that case, if the defendant shows up to all court appearances and the case is resolved, the court will refund the full amount (minus possible court fees or fines). So, the difference is: Bonding Company = Pay a fee, no refund. Cash Bond to Court = Full refund if all conditions are met. Is a defendant released on bail really in custody of the posting Bail Agency?Yes, but not in the way most people think. When a bail bond company posts a bond, we take legal responsibility for the defendant’s appearance in court. This means that while the defendant is physically free, we are still considered in the legal custody of the bonding agency.
Here’s what that means: The bail agency holds the authority to monitor and set conditions for the defendant’s release. If the defendant fails to follow those conditions (such as regular check-ins, maintaining communication, or staying within allowed travel boundaries), the agency has the legal right to revoke the bond.This could lead to the defendant being arrested and returned to jail. The agency is vouching for the defendant’s behavior, so their freedom comes with rules. It’s not total freedom it’s conditional release under supervision. Do I need collateral & what can I use for collateral?It depends on the case. Collateral is sometimes required to secure a bail bond, especially when: The bond amount is high. The defendant has prior failures to appear. The risk of flight is considered greater. There's a limited financial history or lower income rate for the cosigner qualifications. Examples of acceptable collateral include Real estate (homes or land), Vehicles, Jewelry, Bank accounts. Other valuable property. However, not all bonds require collateral. Many bonds can be approved with strong cosigners, proof of income, or a sufficient down payment. At our agency, we review each case individually and aim to offer flexible, fair options and in some cases, no collateral is needed at all.
📞 Contact us directly to review your situation — we're here to work with you.
What happens if a person is released on Bail, but the case is dismissed? Do I still owe the premium?Yes. Once a bail bond is posted and the defendant is released from custody, the bail company has earned their premium regardless of how the case turns out. Even if the case is: Dismissed, Dropped by the District Attorney, Resolved with probation or ends in conviction or sentencing. 👉 The premium still must be paid in full.
Think of it like this: Hiring a bail bond agency is like hiring a service and the service is performed the moment the person is released. Just like you still pay off a car loan if your car gets totaled, you must fulfill the financial agreement made with the bail company. If you're on a payment plan, that agreement remains valid and enforceable until the full balance is paid regardless of the outcome in court. This structure is set by law, not the bail agency, and it ensures fairness and consistency across all bond transactions.
What happens if the defendant is put back in jail for an added charge or has been surrendered for violating their bond, do I still owe the balance of the outstanding money owed?Yes, you are still responsible for the full balance. When a defendant is: Re-arrested on new charges, surrendered for violating the terms of their bond, it does not cancel the bail agreement or erase the remaining balance owed. Once a Memorandum of Agreement (or any bail contract) is signed, it becomes a legally binding financial obligation like a loan. The bail company has already provided the service of securing the defendant's release, and that premium is earned in full once the bond is posted.
📝 Note: The bond is not refunded or voided simply because the defendant ends up back in custody.
If your financial situation changes, most companies, including ours, may be willing to work with you. You might qualify for: Extended payment terms OR Lower monthly payments. However, that requires a new agreement signed by all parties involved. Bottom line: The original debt remains in place unless officially renegotiated in writing.
What are the 7 reasons a defendant may be placed back in jail by a NC Bail Bond AgentAccording to North Carolina Law, a bail bond agent (surety) has the legal right to arrest and surrender a defendant back to jail — without refund of any bond fees — for any of the following reasons:
1. Failure to Pay Premium: The defendant & the cosigners willfully fail to pay or stops making agreed payments toward the bond premium.
2. Change of Address Without Notice: The defendant changes their residence without notifying the bonding company in advance.
3. Evading or Hiding from the Surety: The defendant intentionally hides or avoids contact with the bail bond agent.
4. Leaving the State Without Permission: Traveling or relocating outside of North Carolina without prior written permission from the surety is a direct violation.
5. Violating Any Conditions Set by the Surety: This includes failure to check in, breaking curfews, or not adhering to any rules or terms set by the bonding company.
6. Lying or Failing to Disclose Important Legal History: The defendant fails to disclose any previous felony convictions (within 10 years), pending charges, or past failures to appear in court — or provides false information.
7. Providing False Identification or Using an Alias: If the defendant gives false personal information, fake ID, or uses an alias during the bonding process, the bond is subject to immediate revocation. (1963, c. 1225, s. 5; 1975, c. 619, s. 1; 1998?211, s. 30; 2001?269, s. 2.3; 2007?399, s. 1.) 💡Remember: Once a bond is revoked, the bail agent can lawfully detain and surrender the defendant to the jail, and you’re still responsible for the financial balance unless a new agreement is made.
What if the person I bail out does not show up on their assigned NC court date?If the defendant fails to appear (FTA) for their assigned court date, the following actions will or may occur: A Warrant Will Be Issued. The court can issue a bench warrant for their arrest, and they may be charged with Failure to Appear, which can lead to additional penalties.
The Notice Will Be Sent to the Insurance Company, Bail Agency & Cosigner labeled as a Bond Forfeiture Notice.The bail bond company and any listed cosigners will be notified of the missed court date and held accountable for the bond. You (the Cosigner) Become Responsible for the Full Bond Amount. If the defendant cannot be located or surrendered within the court’s grace period, the full bond amount becomes due, and the bail company can take legal action to recover that money.
What Are Your Options as a Cosigner?✅ Contact the Bail Bond Company Immediately. We can assist with locating the defendant, rescheduling the court date if allowed, or guiding you through the surrender process.
✅ Help the Defendant Surrender Voluntarily. Turning themselves in may help reduce additional legal consequences and protect your financial liability. In most cases we will rewrite the new bond for the FTA and the defendant will not see the inside of the jail.
✅ Work Toward Reinstating the Bond. In some cases, the court may allow the bond to be reinstated, but this usually requires fast action and attorney involvement with getting the OFA, FTA & BOND FORFEITURE "RECALLED".
⏰ Time is critical. The longer the defendant stays missing, the more at risk you and your collateral & OR you will be paying the full amount of the bond & there will not be a payment plan with the court. What if the person I bail out gets re-arrested in a different county or state & is out on bond in NC?If the defendant you bonded with in North Carolina is re-arrested in a different county or another state, this is a serious situation, and action must be taken quickly.
🚨 Here’s What You Should Do Immediately: Contact the Bail Bond Company Right Away! As your bonding agency, we need to be notified immediately. We can review the terms of your agreement, communicate with the District Attorney if needed, and help protect you from further liability. Understand That Your Original Bond Is Still Active. Until the case in North Carolina is resolved or officially exonerated, the bond you signed remains in effect even if the defendant is in custody somewhere else. Depending on the circumstances, your bonding company can petition the court or submit a request to withdraw the bond, but this must be handled properly through legal channels. However, it's not always granted by the DA's Office, and they may pay for the defendant to be returned on a WRIT. Be Prepared for Transfer or Extradition Delays. If the other authority does not release the defendant or delays transfer, it may increase your financial risk and limit the bonding agency’s ability to take immediate custody.
Important Note: Communication is key. You are our client, and our contract is with you, not the defendant. The sooner you reach out to us, the more we can do to help protect your interest and avoid a Bond Forfeiture Notice. Are there any additional legal fees or charges I need to pay?Yes, there may be. When you sign a bail bond, you are entering into a legal and financial agreement, and there are certain situations where additional charges or legal responsibilities can arise: 🔻 Common Situations That Can Lead to Extra Costs: A Bond Forfeiture Notice. If the defendant fails to appear in court and is not surrendered or returned to custody within the allotted time, the court may issue a forfeiture, and you may owe the full bond amount.
Legal Judgment: If the bond is forfeited and the defendant is not recovered, the court via the insurance company and or the bail bonding agent can enter a civil judgment against the cosigner (you), making you legally responsible to pay the entire face value of the bond. Court or Administrative Fees, in some cases, there may be court-imposed fees related to processing forfeitures or judgments.
How to Avoid These Costs: Ensure the defendant appears at every court date. Keep regular communication with the bond agency. Report any violations or suspicious activity immediately. Understand and follow the terms of your consigner agreement.
Bottom Line: While the bail premium is the most common cost, failing to meet your obligations as a cosigner can lead to significant legal and financial consequences.
Should I get an attorney to request a bail reduction?Yes, it’s often a wise decision. If a case has been filed at the court by the District Attorney's office and the bail amount is too high for you to afford, then you may want to seek the advice of an attorney regarding possible bail reduction. Even if you’re working with a bail bond agency, the bond amount set by the court is outside of our control. If the amount is too high, an attorney is your best route to requesting a reduction. Attorneys know how to file the proper motions and advocate for a lower bail. We are not allowed to act as an attorney!
Can a Bail Bond Company refer the Defendant to an attorney to handle his/her case in NC?No! Under North Carolina law, a bail bond company cannot legally refer or recommend a specific attorney to a defendant. This restriction exists to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure the legal process remains fair and unbiased. Just search online for attorneys who specialize in the Defendant's type of charges. Use online directories NC State Bar Lawyer Directory, NC Legal Aid Services or contact your local public defender’s office if you cannot afford an attorney.
Can you post a bond for my son/daughter who is in jail for child support?No, unfortunately we cannot. Child support related arrests fall under civil law, not criminal law and bail bond companies are not allowed to post bonds for civil matters such as unpaid child support. Child support cases require a full cash bond to be paid directly to the court or magistrate usually in the exact amount owed. Bail agents are not authorized to issue surety bonds for these types of cases. You will need to speak with the Clerk of Court or child support enforcement office to handle payment and secure release. DO NTO GIVE YOUR MONEY TO A BAIL BOND AGENT FOR CHILD SUPPORT MATTERS! HOW DO I BECOME A BAILBONDS WOMAN/MAN?If you’re interested in becoming a licensed bail bond agent, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started in North Carolina:
✅ Step 1: Find a Local Bail Bond Company Willing to Sponsor YouMost new agents begin by training under a licensed bail bond agency.
The agency you train with will guide you through the licensing process and may offer you hands-on experience while you study.
✅ Step 2: Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Education (PLE)You must take and pass a 20-hour Pre-Licensing Education course through an approved provider (such as NC Bail Academy or other certified schools).
✅ Step 3: Pass a Background CheckYou must undergo and pass a criminal background check. Certain convictions may disqualify you.
✅ Step 4: Apply for Your License Through the North Carolina Department of Insurance (NCDOI)Submit your application online at www.ncdoi.gov
You’ll pay an application fee and submit necessary documentation, including fingerprints.
✅ Step 5: Take and Pass the State Licensing ExamThe exam is administered through Pearson VUE.
Once you pass, you'll receive your license to begin work as a Surety Bail Bondsman or Runner (assistant to a bondsman).
⚠️ Important Requirements: Must be at least 18 years old, must have a high school diploma or GED. Must be a legal U.S. resident, and must not have any disqualifying criminal history.
Interested?If you're serious about a career in bail bonding and have the commitment to help people while working under legal and time-sensitive conditions, contact a local agency (like ours) to get started.