Frequently Asked Questions

Your Bail Bonds FAQs Answered: Navigating the Release Process with Confidence

1. **How much do I pay for a bond, and why choose a Bondsman?**
   - A Bondsman charges 10% for State charges and 15% for Federal bonds. For example, on a $5,000 bond, it's $500 with a Bondsman. Choosing one ensures a faster release compared to paying the full amount at the jail.
   
   

2. **Is the premium for the bond refundable?**
   - No, the 10% premium is non-refundable, serving as the bondsman's fee.
   
   

3. **Defendant or Indemnitor: What's the difference?**
   - The Defendant faces charges, while the Indemnitor, often a friend or relative, is responsible for the full bond if the defendant misses court.
   
   

4. **How much do I pay for a bond, and why choose a Bondsman?**
   - A Bondsman charges 10% for State charges and 15% for Federal bonds. For example, on a $5,000 bond, it's $500 with a Bondsman. Choosing one ensures a faster release compared to paying the full amount at the jail.
   
   

5. **What's the cost for bonds under $1,000 in Florida?**
   - For bonds under $1,000, the fixed premium is $100. For instance, on a $500 bond, the premium would be $100.
   
   

6. **How long does it take for the defendant to get released after paying the bond?**
   - It takes 4 to 8 hours after the bondsman submits all paperwork to the jail.
   
   

7. **What if there's a warrant for my arrest?**
   - Notify the bondsman for a walk-through bond. It usually takes 15 to 30 minutes for a misdemeanor charge or traffic warrant to lift the warrant and get a new court date.
   
   

8. **How long am I responsible for the bonded defendant?**
   - Responsibility for the indemnitor lasts until the case is closed or a discharge notice is received.
   
   

9. **How will I know when the defendant is out of jail?**
   - The defendant can call you or check Palm Beach County's inmate records at 561-688-4340.
   
   

10. **If the defendant is re-arrested, am I still responsible for the original bond?**
    - Yes, you may be subject to a bond surrender, and you remain responsible for the initial bond. If the defendant is re-arrested call us ASAP.
    
    

11. **What if the defendant has an ICE immigration hold or is not a citizen?**
    - Illegal aliens may be be held on a 48 hour hold for ICE to determine if they will be transferred to an immigration jail to determine their immigration status.
    
    

12. **What if the defendant has a cash bond?**
    - For a cash bond, you must pay the full amount at the jail.