Frequently Asked Questions

When someone is arrested, a magistrate or judge sets a bail amount. If the family can't pay the full amount in cash, a licensed bail bondsman posts the bond on the defendant's behalf in exchange for a non-refundable premium — typically 10–15% of the total bail amount, as regulated by NC law.

In North Carolina, the premium is typically 10–15% of the total bail amount. The exact percentage depends on the case specifics. The premium is non-refundable and compensates the bondsman for the service and the risk of putting up the full bail.

Yes. We offer flexible payment options including major credit cards, debit cards, and tailored financing. Call us to discuss what works for your situation.

A cash bond requires the full bail amount to be paid in cash directly to the court — that money is held until the case is resolved. A surety bond involves paying a bail bondsman a non-refundable premium; the bondsman then assumes responsibility for the full bail amount with the court.

The bail process can vary widely depending on the court schedule, jail processing times, and the specifics of the case. Generally, once paperwork is in order and the premium is paid, bail can be posted within a few hours.

A co-signer, also called an indemnitor, is a person who signs the bail bond contract and agrees to be financially responsible if the defendant fails to appear in court. Co-signers are sometimes required for larger bonds or higher-risk situations.

Collateral is property — such as a vehicle title, real estate deed, or other valuable asset — used to secure the bond. It's typically required when the bail amount is large or when the defendant is considered a flight risk. Collateral is returned once the case is resolved and the bond is exonerated.

Yes. Bondsmen often consider many factors beyond credit — including employment, community ties, and the nature of the charge. Additional collateral or a co-signer may be required to offset the risk.

If a defendant misses a court date, the court may issue an arrest warrant and the bond may be forfeited. The bondsman has a financial stake in making sure the defendant appears, and we'll work to locate the defendant and resolve the situation. Co-signers may also be held financially responsible.

Yes. Many bonds can be processed by phone or fax, especially if you can't make it to our office. Call us and we'll walk you through what's needed.

Yes. We're open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays. Arrests don't follow a schedule, and neither do we.

Have the defendant's full name, date of birth, the jail they're being held at, and (if known) the bail amount and charges. If you don't have all of this, call anyway — we can help you find what's missing.

Defendants are generally required to ask permission from the bonding company before traveling out of state. If permission is granted, the defendant may travel. If pretrial monitoring is in place, permission must also be obtained from the pretrial officer.

The defendant must appear at all scheduled court dates, comply with any conditions set by the court or bondsman, keep the bondsman informed of any changes in contact information, and pay any balance owed on the bond service fee.