If you’re ever unfortunate enough to fall into the 3 percent of Americans arrested every year, would you know what to do? Once you’re behind bars in the Harrisburg, PA area, one option is to remain there while your case works its way through the court.

But because the wheels of justice grind very slowly, this could mean the loss of your job and the inability to pay your bills or support your family. Another option is to secure your release by paying the bail amount set by the judge at your bail hearing. But what if you can’t afford that?

A Bail Bondsman to The Rescue

People who have the financial means can just pay their full bail amount, go home and get their money back when their case is settled. But suppose you’re faced with a bail of several thousand dollars? Could you really come up with that much cash?

If you can’t, the court will allow Harrisburg bail bondsman to post bail on your behalf. But you’ll pay only 10 percent of the total bail amount. Why?

Because that’s the bail bondsman’s non-refundable fee. In return, he or she will post the full amount bail amount. After your case is dismissed or adjudicated, the bondsman gets the bail back and keeps the fee to cover costs.

Finding a Qualified Bail Bondsman

Don’t settle on first bail bondsman you call. A qualified Harrisburg bail bondsman must meet all of Pennsylvania’s legal standards. These include:

• Completing 24 hours of pre-licensing education credits.
• Passing the state’s bail bondsman exam.
• Holding a professional bondsman’s license and passing a thorough background check.
• Participating in ongoing bondsman’s education courses.

For the quickest results, choose a Harrisburg bail bondsman with an office near where you’re incarcerated. Look for one on good terms with the court, because having an inside connection is never a bad idea!