What to Consider Before Helping a Friend Make Bail

 Posted on October 09, 2024 in Bail Bonds

Abruptly getting a call from a recorded voice stating that an inmate at the local jail would like to speak to you can be alarming, especially if it comes in late at night. Even if you suspect that you already know exactly who would be calling you from jail, curiosity might compel you to answer. On the other end of the line is a friend - he got into a bar fight, was pulled over for driving drunk, or was caught with drugs. He needs you to help him bail out, preferably before his boss notices his absence. If possible, you should try to connect your friend with a licensed Dallas, TX bail bondsman. A bondsman is in the best position to assist your friend and to determine what risks might be associated with posting bail.

Offer Collateral or Payments With Caution 

If some type of collateral is required, you should think very carefully before offering property of your own. Many bondsmen can work directly with the incarcerated person so that any required collateral or upfront payment comes directly from him. If your friend fails to appear in court for any reason, you could lose any money or property you have offered. You know your friend better than the judge assigned to his case and are probably in a better position to guess whether your friend is a flight risk. If you have a feeling that your friend would leave town or refuse to address his charges, make sure you are not taking on any financial risk. A bondsman may not accept his case if this turn of events seems likely.

Will Posting Bail Endanger Your Friend? 

Getting your friend out of jail may not be the best way to help him. If he is struggling with a substance abuse problem or a mental illness like severe depression, it may be in his best interest to remain in jail for the time being. Drug addicts who are released on bail may increase their drug use out of stress or become reckless, leading to a life-threatening overdose. People who are already struggling with extreme anxiety or depression and are facing serious charges may be a suicide risk.

Courts sometimes arrange transfer to involuntary treatment facilities depending on the charges and the outcome of the case. If you do choose to help your friend get out of jail, it may be best to try to help him get into treatment voluntarily while awaiting trial. His criminal defense lawyer will probably encourage this.

Contact a Denton County, TX Bail Bondsman

Doc's Bail Bonds is skilled in assessing the risk of bailing out a defendant. Our experienced Dallas, TX bail bondsman will work directly with the arrestee when possible. Contact us at 214-747-4110 to speak to a licensed bondsman.