Having a loved one end up in jail can be a stressful experience for both the friends and family. Emotions such as embarrassment, confusion, and wondering how to manage the finances are all too common. Such factors leave people feeling helpless and make them vulnerable to bail bond frauds and scams.
Regardless of how bleak the situation might be, always be on the lookout for “fast-result” schemes. Not only are they costly, but most of them are illegal as well. In this blog, we’ll list a number of bail bond scams you need to be wary of.
Not Offering a Contract
Never enter into an agreement with a bondsman – or anyone else for that matter – without the proper documentation. Contracts serve to protect the interests of both parties and help set the conditions of payments and services. A bail bond is a necessary part of the process of getting someone out of jail and failing to comply with the set requirements leads to serious consequences.
Work only with bail bond agencies that offer contracts and be sure to go over all of its contents.
Asking for Payments over the Phone
While this type of scam is becoming less prevalent thanks to advancements in technology and protection against fraud, one can never be too sure when it comes to payments over the phone. The best way to go forward is to meet and sign the contract in person.
If you must, then only agree to payments over the phone after you’ve seen and signed the contract. Also, never agree to make payment deals with 3rd party members.
Bondsmen That Make Deals at the Jail
First of all, bail bondsmen searching for clients at the jail are already in violation of the rules and regulations that govern the bail bonds industry, as stated by the National Conference of State Legislatures.
From the bondsmen perspective, this is the best way to conduct business as they are bound to be countless imprisoned people looking for a way out. Preying on vulnerable and scared individuals is precisely the reason the law prohibiting bondsmen from lurking near jails was passed in the first place.
Deals Too Good to be True
Bail bond companies offering “quick results” or low charges are usually inexperienced, unlicensed, or scam artists looking to make a quick buck. Always vet the agency you are working with and make sure they are affiliated with a state-recognized body.
Getting arrested or having a friend, family member, or co-worker get arrested and jailed can be a harrowing experience. DeLaughter Bail Bonds is a family-owned bail bond agency in Whitley County. They are licensed, experienced, and have open and transparent policies. They also work within the legal framework to help clients get out of jail until the time of their court hearings. Contact us today for more information.
