Bail agents are dedicated to helping those accused of crimes get back home where they belong. Their expertise allows them to secure release from jail quickly and invest in the defendant to ensure they make it to every court date. Unfortunately, this industry is often misunderstood, and some of the myths out there could keep defendants from getting the help they need. Here's a look at the facts that lie behind these fictions.

What Are the Most Prevalent Misconceptions About Bail Bonds?

1. Offices Are in Dangerous Locations

Some movies and TV shows have created the impression that bail agencies set up offices in the most dangerous parts of the city. In fact, most are located near courthouses, jails, and police stations, and they're often situated in normal office buildings. Those wishing to seek their bail bond services shouldn't feel worried about making an appointment to get their loved ones released.

2. Services Are Expensive

Compared to the cost of putting up bail yourself, the fees for a bond are extremely affordable. In Connecticut, the percentage they can charge is also regulated by the state, so you won’t have to worry about hidden costs and fees. In fact, many bail agents offer interest-free payment plans to clients who don’t have the resources to pay the fee upfront.

3. Agents Are Criminals Themselves

Perhaps the most extreme misconception is that bail agents are criminals or involved in the mob. This couldn’t be further from the truth. To obtain a license, bail agents have to pass a background check and go through a state licensing program.

4. Agents Can Negotiate for Lower Bail

Some urban myths give bail agents more power than they actually possess. While a bail bondsman will advocate for their clients and agree to cover the bail if a defendant doesn’t appear in court, they can’t negotiate for lower bail amounts. Once a judge sets a bail amount, they usually won’t lower it without a compelling reason. A possible way to lower bail is through a motion to reduce bond filed by their attorney.

5. Bondsmen Return Your Money When the Case Is Over

If you pay the court directly, you'll get the money back at the conclusion of the case. Unfortunately, this amount is beyond the reach of many families. However, you only pay a percentage of that amount to a bail bondsman, which they keep in exchange for their services. Bail offices use these funds to pay employees and cover their other operating costs.

Getting into legal trouble is always a stressful situation, which is why families across Connecticut trust 3-D Bail Bonds. Our local bail agents understand that an arrest can be a difficult situation. That's why we've provided services to Connecticut residents for over 23 years. Because an arrest can happen at any time, we also offer 24-hour availability. Visit our website to read our reviews, follow us on Facebook for helpful tips, and call (860) 247-2245 to reach our main office in Hartford at 57 Fishfry Street, directly across from the Hartford Correctional Center. To speak with a bail bondsman in New Britain, call (860) 229-2525 . Call (203) 562-6666 for  bail services in the Hamden area, and follow us on Facebook for more information.