If you’ve tried to bail yourself or a loved one out of jail, but every bail bond company you speak with requires collateral, you may be wondering why. Especially if you’ve heard other people with higher bail amounts secure their bail bonds without collateral. What gives?

Unfortunately, the decision to require collateral is up to the discretion of the bail bond company, but there are a few things they look at when deciding whether to require it:

• Nature of the Crime: One of the first things a company will look at when deciding whether to require collateral for a bail bond is the nature of the crime. More severe crimes may necessitate collateral as a safeguard to ensure the defendant appears in court.
• Prior Arrests or Convictions: If the individual has had several prior arrests or convictions for other crimes, the bail bond company is more likely to require collateral than if it was a first-time offense.
• Failure to Appear in Court in the Past: Individuals who have previously failed to appear in court pose a higher risk of skipping their court dates again, which leaves a bail bond company responsible for the full bail amount. As a result, they’ll require collateral with the bail bond, so they’re covered if the defendant fails to appear in court.
• Employment History: They also look at the employment histories of both the arrested individual and the indemnitor, or the person bailing the other party out of jail. An inconsistent or lack of regular employment may result in collateral requirements.
• Length of Residency: Generally speaking, established residents with ties to a community are less of a flight risk, so collateral may not be required. For someone who only recently moved to the area, they may be more likely to skip bail, so the company may require collateral.

Godfrey Bonding in Canton, GA, is a bail bond company available 24/7 that offers free consultations for potential clients. During this time, you can discuss the details of your bail bond with one of their agents and determine whether you’ll need collateral. Additionally, they accept all major credit cards, as well as cash and checks. Find out more by visiting their website, or call (770) 479-5230 to speak with one of their bail bond agents directly.