When someone is arrested, family members are often the first people trying to help.
A parent may receive a late-night phone call from an adult child.
A spouse may be trying to get their partner home.
A sibling may be the only person available to make arrangements.
Arranging a bail bond for family member can involve more than simply making a payment, so it is important to understand what you are agreeing to.
Can You Contact the Bail Bond Company for Someone Else?
Yes, family members commonly contact bail bond companies when trying to help a defendant.
What Information Should You Have?
Gather the defendant’s:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Detention location
- Booking information
- Available bond information
Can You Pay for Someone Else?
Discuss the available payment arrangement with the bail bond company.
Is Paying the Same as Cosigning?
Not necessarily.
This distinction is important.
What Is a Cosigner?
A cosigner signs the bail bond agreement and accepts the responsibilities described in that agreement.
Should You Cosign Because You Feel Guilty?
Financial and contractual decisions should be made after understanding the agreement.
Ask What You Are Responsible For
Do not assume.
Ask About the Complete Cost
Understand what is due initially and whether future payments apply.
Ask About Collateral
If collateral is required, understand the terms.
Read the Agreement
Do not let emotional pressure prevent you from reviewing what you sign.
Keep Your Own Copies
The cosigner should retain important records.
Keep Receipts
Document payments.
Talk to the Defendant About Expectations
If you are helping someone obtain release, discuss the responsibilities involved.
Make Court Attendance a Priority
The defendant should take required court appearances seriously.
Help With Transportation
If appropriate, help make sure reliable transportation is available.
Help With Organization
Create calendar reminders.
But Do Not Take Over Every Responsibility
The defendant remains responsible for addressing the case.
What if You Become Concerned After Release?
If your concern involves the bail bond agreement, contact the bail bond company.
Legal concerns should be directed to an appropriate attorney.
Case Bail Bonds Helps Families Understand Before They Sign
Helping someone you love is important.
Understanding what you are signing is equally important.
Case Bail Bonds serves Wichita and Sedgwick County, Kansas.
Before arranging a bail bond for family member, understand the cost, payment terms, collateral requirements, cosigner responsibilities, and what will be expected after the defendant is released.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Bail Bonds
Can a family member call a bail bond company?
Yes.
What information should I have?
The defendant’s identifying and available detention information.
Can someone else pay?
Discuss the payment arrangement with the bail bond company.
Is paying automatically the same as cosigning?
Not necessarily.
Should I understand what cosigning means?
Absolutely.
Should I ask about collateral?
Yes.
Should I keep my own copy of the agreement?
Yes.
Should I save receipts?
Yes.
Should I help the defendant remember court?
Practical support can be useful.
Does Case Bail Bonds serve Wichita families?
Yes, throughout Wichita and Sedgwick County.
