When your loved one is stuck in jail, paying bail is often the only thing separating them from their freedom.

For many, an expensive bail can be impossible to afford. That’s where a bail bond service comes into the picture. Bail services help your loved one get out of jail, providing the funds needed to cover the cost of bail.

If you’re looking for bail bond options, and you’re not sure where to start, here are seven important tips to help you choose the best bail bond service.

1. Compare Fees and Interest Rates

Bail bond services are useful for those who don’t have all the money needed to pay for a loved one’s bail, but expensive fees could drive up the cost in the long run.

Expect to pay around 10% to post bail using a bail service. Compare different payment plans and their interest rates. Bail bondsmen should work to come up with a plan that’s comfortable for you and your family.

2. Choose a Licensed Company

For peace of mind, you’ll want to choose only a trustworthy, reputable bail service. The quickest way to determine if a business is worth your time is to check if it’s licensed.

Check that the service displays license information on their website. If not, confirm that the company is licensed on the phone before moving forward.

3. Look for 24/7 Availability

Don’t let your loved one sit in jail another night.

Skip any bail bond service that isn’t 24/7. Bail 2 GO is one company that is open all hours of the day and night.

4. Ask for Recommendations

For fast and trustworthy results, try asking around for recommendations. If you know anyone else who has been arrested, they can offer their suggestions.

Also, try asking detention officers for recommendations. They should be familiar with bail bondsmen in the area.

5. Consider Privacy Concerns

After a loved one has been arrested, the last thing you need is the added stress of word getting out.

A good bail bond service will prioritize privacy, keeping all information safe and secure. They should be professional and not ask for any information unrelated to the bail bond.

Do, however, expect to provide some personal information such as your loved one’s social security number and employment information. This is required for their release.

6. Check Reviews

Just like with any other business, it helps to check reviews to better understand a company’s reputation.

Look online for any reviews others have left about bail bond services in your area. Avoid any that have a pattern of complaints and negative comments.

7. Quick Turnaround

Agencies and companies with large systems tend to work more quickly than small businesses run by one or two people.

When contacting different bail bondsmen, ask directly how long the bail process will take with their services. Generally, they should be able to help you get your loved one released in just a few hours.

How to Choose a Bail Bond Service

If you need a bail bond service to help get your loved one out of jail, be sure to choose wisely. Keep these seven tips in mind to select the best service in your area.

For more articles on the criminal justice system, check out our other law articles!