FAQ

What is bail? 

The purpose of the bail system is to guarantee that the defendant will show up in court. It is a legal right in the eighth amendment of the U.S. Constitution to be able to be released on "reasonable Bail".

When someone is accused of a crime, they are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. A "bail bond" is put up as a guarantee that the person accused will appear in court to answer to the charges brought before him/ her.

A bail bond release allows the defendant to remain out of jail while waiting for court. This means the person can go back to work, be with his/her family, and basically, go about daily living.

Who is a Bail Agent?

A bail agent is fully licensed, bonded, and insured through the Department of Insurance. He or she must be at least 18 years old, be a resident of California, pass a Bail licensing exam with the Department of Insurance, and typically have a clean criminal record.

How does bail work?

When you call us for bail we will ask questions to gather basic information about the person in custody. Where is he/she in jail? Or where was he/she arrested?

Then we will call the jail and get the bail information, call you back, and arrange to meet at the jail, office, home, or wherever is convenient for you.

Payment arrangements will be negotiated, and applications will be filled out and signed. An indemnity contract will be signed by the person who will be responsible for the defendant to go to court.

Warning: Do not sign any blank documents. Know what you are signing. When in doubt – ASK!

How much will it cost?

A typical bail agency will charge 10% of the total bond amount. For example, a $10,000 bond would cost you $1,000. This is non-refundable. The bail agency must charge the premium rate it has contracted with the California Department of Insurance. Lightning Bail Bonds offers an 8% rate when certain requirements are met.

Warning: Beware of bondsmen offering less than 8%! Agents who offer anything less are violating the law, and this could jeopardize your freedom. Think twice before dealing with an unethical bail agent!

What kind of payments do we take?

We take all major credit cards, checks, cash, and debit cards. If you can't afford the whole premium at once, payment arrangements can be made weekly or monthly.

The most important thing is to get your loved one out of jail. If we can't work with you we will find someone who can. People often think they don't have money, but fail to realize they may have items of value like gold jewelry. We have a jewelry appraiser we work with right down the street. (name of man?)

Do you need collateral?

Most bail bonds do not need collateral (property, car, motorcycle, etc). We feel it is more important to get family members, bosses, co-workers, and friends to sign for the client. We have integrity and expect our clients to have the same. Some people may be considered a "flight risk". In that case, collateral may be required.
The most important thing to you – is to get your person out of jail.
The most important thing to us – is to be sure our client goes to court.
The rest is all "small stuff" and can be worked out – call anytime to ask how to proceed.

The Numbers are:

I still have more questions about bail bonds…..

Call us anytime – we will answer all your questions or find someone who can. We cannot give legal advice, however, attorneys are welcome to call us to confer about a mutual client.

Email Us