If we know anything about humans, it’s that we’re not perfect. As a matter of fact – as you most likely know from personal experience – humans are about as far from perfection as they can get. As such, many people make mistakes throughout their lives; most of these mistakes take place in people’s younger years. Most people who go to jail in the United States do so in their 20s or late teens.

Further, just because someone goes to jail doesn’t automatically mean that they’re a bad person. Tons of people are taken to jail for things they haven’t actually done.

The United States is one of two countries – along with the Philippines – that still uses the bail bonding process. If you live here, you should know the following things about bailing someone out of jail.

Make Sure You Know The Most Basic Information About The Person Who’s In Jail

Once you’ve received notice that a friend, family member, or loved one is locked away in the slammer, find out what jail they’re located at. Find out what city, state, and zip code that jail is found in – don’t forget the jail’s name, either.

Further, make sure to receive the booking number of the incarcerated individual and their first, middle, and last names. You do not have to be aware of the dollar amount of that person’s bail – your bail bondsman will inform you.

You Won’t Get All Of Your Money Back

If you placed any money on bond alongside your bondsman, you’ll receive that cash back once the person attends court as scheduled. However, you will not get back the premium paid to the bondsman in exchange for helping your loved one, associate, or friend out of a tough situation.

You Have To Put Forth Collateral

Bondsmen don’t always require collateral, though most do. They accept deeds to houses, vehicle titles, credit cards, investments, and other assets of value.

Bailing someone out of jail is never a positive experience. However, you should at least know the basics of bonding if you find yourself in such a situation.