In the bail bonds industry, it can often be difficult to distinguish legitimate businessmen from shadier actors. Fortunately, there are a few ways to help sort through the various individuals and businesses looking to post your bail for a fee. Here are a few ways to help you decide whether or not a bail bondsman is legitimate. 

3 Ways to Tell if a Bail Bondsman Is the Real Deal

1. Fee

A bail bondsman who asks for too much money is someone to steer clear of. You don't want to get overcharged in a business where everyone is essentially doing the same service—posting bail. On the other hand, bondsmen who charge too little can also arouse suspicion. Look for the standard industry fee of 10%. 

2. Unsolicited Call

Individuals typically start researching bondsmen after they discover that a loved one is in jail. If you get an unsolicited call from someone claiming to be a bail bondsman without reaching out to them first, it's a worrying sign. Charlatans and scam artists posing as bail bondsmen often reach out to unsuspecting people. 

3. Interest

Most reputable bail bondsmen charge a flat fee of around 10% of whatever the bail is set at to get individuals out of jail. Because they're getting that fee upfront, they don't need to charge interest over the course of the bail payments. If they do charge interest, in addition to the upfront fee, they're trying to get more money out of you than what is standard practice. 

Bi-State Bail Bonds is one of Greater Texarkana, TX's most respected bail bond companies. Committed to helping families get their loved ones out of jail quickly, their professionals offer flexible payment methods and are happy to work with clients to find a plan and cost that works for them. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call directly at (903) 794-2245 to speak with a friendly bail bondsman today.