Frequently Asked Questions About Bail Bonds

What is a bail bond?

A bail bond is a contractual agreement between the bail bonding company, the courts and a surety. The bail bonding company charges a percentage of the bond amount to get the person released from jail. The surety then guarantees the bail bond company that the accused person will appear in court for all future court dates.

When do you need to have property as collateral?

For Muscogee County, property is mandatory if the bond is set at $35,000 or higher.

What happens if the defendant gets re-arrested while out on bond?

If a defendant gets re-arrested for anything other than a traffic violation or misdemeanor he or she can be surrendered. This means that the bonding company can release the defendant from the previous bond.

What do I need to do to bond someone out of jail?

You need to pay the bond fee, have a co-signer and possibly provide some form of collateral.

What information do I need when I call a bondsman?

The defendant’s full name with correct spelling, location they are incarcerated, list of charges if known. Most cases that is all that will be needed.

How much does a bond cost?

In Georgia, the fee for a bail bond is no more than 15%.

Where does ABC Bonding of Columbus write bail bonds?

Muscogee County, Georgia

Is the bail bond fee refundable?

No. Once a bail bond has been posted for the defendant, the money is earned by the bail bonding company and cannot be refunded.

What is a co-signer?

A co-signer is the person who takes on the financial responsibility for the bail bond if the accused person does not appear in court.

What is collateral?

Collateral is money, property, or anything of value we hold as a deposit while the accused is out on bail. The collateral is returned when the defendant’s case has been completely settled.

How do I know when the defendant has to go to court?

Usually, the courts will notify the accused of his/her court date. However, it is your responsibility to know when the defendant has to go to court. You may call our office 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to check on the status of any court dates.

If I am a co-signer for a friend or relative and that person misses court, do I have to pay the full value of the bond?

You are responsible for the full amount of the bond plus expenses if your friend or family member does not go to court. A failure to appear in court does not necessarily mean you have to pay the full amount of the bond. However, there is no excuse for missing court and we encourage you to notify us immediately if the defendant will miss court.