FAQs and Testimonials

FAQs and Testimonials

Welcome to Bail America, Inc., where freedom begins. Established in 2000, we have been empowering individuals with bail bonds for felonies throughout Florida. Our approach is simple yet effective: we listen to your unique situation and provide personalized attention that leads to results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a surety bail bond?

A bail bond is a three-party contract between the Courts, the Bondsman, and the Defendant. It is the Bondsman who guarantees to the Court that the accused when released on bail will be present for each and every court appearance in the future. In turn, the Indemnitor guarantees to the Bondsman that he/she will make sure that the Defendant goes to Court when required. For this “Bond Contract”, the Bondsman charges a percentage of the total bond.

How much does a bail bond cost?

In Florida, the fee/premium of a bail bond is set by the State, which is 10% of the bond amount (For example, a bond of $5000.00 the bondsman’s fee would be $500.00).

The State also requires a minimum bond fee of $100.00. This would apply in bonds that are less than $1,000.00 (For example, a bond of $250.00, the minimum would apply, and the fee would be $100.00).

Is the fee/premium refundable?

No. It is our fee for paying the total bond amount for you and is fully earned once the bond is posted.

What is collateral?

Collateral is something of value provided to the bail agent as security for the bond. It can be a house, real property, extra cash, etc. In some instances, bank CDs, stocks, and bonds could be used.

What can be used for collateral?

Collateral can be your property, land, cash or anything of value. In some instances, bank CD’s, stocks, and bonds may be utilized.

When is the collateral returned?

The collateral will be returned once the bail agent receives a Bond Discharge from the court. A “Bond Discharge” is the document that officially releases the bail agent from any further responsibility on the bond. It is required that your collateral be returned within 21 days after receiving a bond discharge notification.

How long does it take to get released from jail?

County jails usually release the defendant with 2-8 hours of the bond being posted. In some instances, due to volume it can take as long as 12-24 hours.

How do I know when the Defendant has to go to Court?

All courts notify the defendant by mail of their court dates. The clerk of court will also notify the bail agent of the court dates. However, it is your responsibility to make sure the defendant knows about the court date, and appears. As a courtesy, someone from our office will notify you and the defendant the day before the court date.

Can I finance part of the bail bond fee?

Perhaps. Each circumstance is unique; therefore we will review with you your particular circumstances and then offer possible solutions.

Testimonials

I needed to find a bail bond place for my family member and Bail America was the answer to my prayers. They treated me and my family with the up most professionalism, kindness, understanding and all around helpfulness! I tried to call other places like M. E. but they were extremely rude, didn’t answer their phones and treated me like I was the criminal just for asking questions about the process of hiring a bail bonds company. When I called Bail America, I spoke to an actual person on the first call, Doug Moore is an awesome person who answered my questions with such kindness, made me feel like I had a new friend to help me with this new difficult situation, explain the whole process and he kept me informed about my family member. In the end we didn’t need to pay a bond for my family member, but Doug still answered my questions and helped me get information on getting my family back home. If the need ever arises, I would not hesitate to call Bail America Inc. and I totally recommend this company!! Don’t go anywhere else…their the Best!!!

Lisa M.

Bail America is THE BEST! I called their office and Connie immediately answered. She helped me locate my son in Polk County jail. (I don’t live locally) Doug called me back within minutes and reassured me he had all the information and would follow the progression of his release. He was in constant contact with me throughout the situation. Truly a comfort in a scary situation. I can’t say enough about their professionalism and accuracy on what to expect. If you ever need this service, no question…call Bail America in Bartow!

Melissa B.

As the owner of a criminal defense law firm, we are always, mindful of the quality of bail surety companies. In Bartow, we always know that our clients will be professionally taken care of by Doug and his team at Bail America. The feel is more like a family member trying to help than just a company trying to make money. If you need to get a loved one out of jail in Polk county, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better place than Bail America. HU

Hal U.

Our firm can rest easy knowing that in Bartow, our clients will be taken care of by the team at Bail America, I cannot give them enough praise!HU

Eli G.

Bail America is like asking your family for help. They are honest, hard working, professional and caring with each client. I would highly recommend them.

Connie B.

I highly recommend and will prefer my family and friends if ever needed to Bail America. Thank you Doug for being so generous and patience with me!!

Karen S.

Helped with all the questions I had and answered every time I called even helped my family find a good lawyer 10/10 would recommend

Cody E.

I contacted Bail America on Sunday evening around 8 pm. The phone was answered by a live person on the 2nd ring. I was expecting to get a VM greeting and I was very impressed. Diane M. was very pleasant, extremely helpful and explained this process which made it extremely convenient. I would highly recommend using this company if you need bond assistance for a loved one.

LaMyra A.