Dealing with the legal system can be confusing, especially when bail bonds are involved. At Harrison Bail Bonds, serving Tallahassee and the Florida panhandle, we often get asked, “Why would a bail bondsman call me?” This blog post will explain the common reasons why a bail bondsman might contact you in Florida.
1. You Applied for a Bail Bond:
The most common reason a bail bondsman would call you is if you (or someone on behalf of a defendant) have applied for a bail bond. The call could be for several reasons:
- Verifying Information: The bondsman needs to verify the information provided on the bail bond application. This includes personal details, employment history, financial information, and contact information. Florida Statute 903.045 outlines the requirements for bail bond applications, and the bondsman needs to ensure accuracy for legal and business reasons.
- Discussing Collateral: If collateral is required for the bond (which is often the case for larger bail amounts), the bondsman will contact you to discuss the type of collateral you’re offering (e.g., property, vehicles, jewelry) and the necessary documentation.
- Explaining the Bail Bond Agreement: The bondsman will explain the terms and conditions of the bail bond agreement, including the premium (the fee you pay the bondsman), your responsibilities as a cosigner (if applicable), and what happens if the defendant fails to appear in court. Florida law regulates bail bond agreements, and the bondsman is obligated to provide you with a clear understanding of the contract.
- Payment Arrangements: The bondsman will discuss payment options for the premium and any other fees associated with the bail bond.
2. You Are a Cosigner (Indemnifier):
If you’ve agreed to be a cosigner (also known as an indemnifier) on a bail bond, the bondsman might call you:
- Verifying Information: Similar to the applicant, the bondsman will verify the information you provided as a cosigner. Your financial stability and reliability are crucial, as you are guaranteeing the defendant’s appearance in court.
- Updates on the Defendant’s Case: The bondsman might contact you with updates on the defendant’s case, such as court dates or changes in the case status, as you have a vested interest in ensuring the defendant appears in court.
- If the Defendant Missed Court: This is the most critical reason a bondsman would contact a cosigner. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bondsman will contact you immediately. As a cosigner, you are responsible for ensuring the defendant’s appearance, and you may be liable for the full bail amount if the defendant cannot be found. Florida Statute 903.26 details the procedures for bail bond forfeiture.
- Locating the Defendant: If the defendant has skipped bail, the bondsman might ask for your help in locating them. As a cosigner, you likely have a relationship with the defendant and may have information that could assist in their apprehension.
3. The Defendant Has Missed Court (Bail Forfeiture):
Even if you weren’t directly involved in posting the bond, a bondsman might contact you if:
- You Have Information About the Defendant: If the defendant has failed to appear in court, the bondsman might contact people who know the defendant, hoping they can provide information about the defendant’s whereabouts.
- You Were Listed as a Reference: If you were listed as a reference on the defendant’s bail bond application, the bondsman might contact you to see if you have any information about the defendant’s current location or contact information.
4. General Inquiries or Marketing (Less Common):
While less frequent, a bail bondsman might call you:
- If you’ve previously interacted with the company: If you’ve contacted the bail bonds company in the past, they might follow up with you regarding their services.
- Marketing (Unlikely, and Subject to Regulations): Bail bond advertising is regulated in Florida. Direct solicitation is generally frowned upon, but a bondsman might contact people in very specific, regulated circumstances.
Your Rights When Contacted by a Bail Bondsman:
- Verify Their Identity: Ask for their name, license number, and the name of the bail bond company they represent. You can verify their license with the Florida Department of Financial Services.
- Ask for Information in Writing: If the call involves a bail bond agreement or forfeiture, request all information in writing.
- Don’t Feel Pressured: You have the right to ask questions and understand the situation fully before making any decisions.
- Consult an Attorney: If you have any doubts or concerns, it’s always best to consult with an attorney.
Find a Florida Bail Bondsman Near Me
Understanding why a bail bondsman might call you can help alleviate stress during a difficult time. Whether it’s about a new bail bond application, your role as a cosigner, or a defendant’s failure to appear in court, knowing your rights and the relevant Florida statutes is essential. At Harrison Bail Bonds, we are committed to transparency and helping you navigate the bail process. Contact us today if you, or a loved one, need a bondsman in Tallahassee, FL or the surrounding areas of the Florida Panhandle.