Finding out that your best friend, brother, or someone else important to your life is under arrest and sitting in jail is upsetting and traumatic for a lot of people. It probably isn't surprising that people under that kind of stress can fall victim to bail bond scams.

Before you jump on an offer from a bail bond service, make sure that you take a moment to breathe and review the information here. This can help you avoid compounding the stress in your life.

Illegally-low Bail Bond Premiums

When you're worried about the expenses associated with a criminal charge, the offer of a reduced premium--the fee you pay to use a bail bond agent for his or her services--can seem attractive. However, minimum bail bond premiums are set by state law. If a company offers a rate that's lower, the odds are good the offer is a deceptive "hook." (If not, the bail bond company is breaking the law.)

A classic "bait and switch" hook involves offering bonds at what seems like half the going rate. However, once you're in the office, you find out that you are merely being allowed to pay that half rate upfront and finance the other half--often at a huge interest rate. It's legal--but deceptive. A bail bonds company that does this is relying on the fact that you're already in the office, and somewhat desperate, to convince you to take the bait.

Companies That Solicit Business Illegally 

Legitimate bail bond companies seldom have to hunt for business--and they're usually legally prohibited from soliciting new business right at the jails. However, that doesn't always stop some companies. 

If your spouse or sibling is in jail and you find yourself getting cold calls from bail bond companies, ask yourself how they knew about your situation. They may be using online tools to track down the relatives of people whose names appear in police reports--or paying someone "under the table" for the information. 

Legitimate bail bond companies don't need to track you down. If you bite on an unsolicited offer, you run the risk that the "bail bond agent" will disappear with your money and leave you in a worse situation than before.

Preventive Measures

There are plenty of legitimate bail bond agents out there. If you find yourself in need of services, look for an established agent with a physical location (not someone who operates by meeting all clients at their homes). Find out what the minimum legal fee for services is in your state and assume any advertised offer for less is misleading. Look for a company that plays everything straight and you'll avoid compounding your problems. If you are looking for a bail bond company, reach out to ASAP Bail Bonds or another local company for more information.