1. Qualities that a Good Bail Bondsman Must Possess
Bail bondsmen are an integral part of
the criminal justice system. They help people
who are in jail post bail and get out before
their court date. This valuable service lends a
hand to those who cannot afford to post bail or
don’t have someone to post bail for them. Ask
anyone who has been to jail and used a bail
bondsman and they will say that the bond
agent was a huge source of relief in a difficult
time. What traits make these unique
professionals so good at what they do?
Knowledge. Think about it—would you ask your plumber to whiten your teeth or call your
dentist and have him unclog the kitchen sink? Of course not. In any circumstance it is important
to seek services from the most knowledgeable professional. This useful tenet holds true for bail
bondsmen as well. In order to be great bond agents, bail bondsmen must obtain a license. In most
states the licensing process involves taking classes on the profession. In these classes, bail
bondsmen learn all about posting bail and the prison system so they can serve their clients to the
best of their abilities. Most states even require potential bond agents to take a final examination
to prove their knowledge. Because of these licensing requirements, good bail bondsmen are
educated on their profession and know the ins and outs of the criminal justice system.
Experience. Another trait that makes a great bail bondsman is
experience. When experience is combined with knowledge, the client
receives the best service they can get. Experienced bond agents are
familiar with the processes involved in posting bail and are able to
perform their duties in a timely manner. In addition, their experience
allows them to be prepared for any extra steps along the way and
teaches them how to handle problems that can occur. A bond agent
with experience is a great bail bondsman.
Patience. Patience is of the upmost importance to bail bondsmen.
Many people who seek the services of a bond agent have never been
incarcerated before. Due to this being their first time in jail, many
people have questions about the process, their situation, posting bail,
their financial responsibilities, etc. Bail bondsmen need to have the
patience to answer these questions (and more) without getting frustrated. This skill allows bail
bondsmen to keep their clients calm and supply them with the information needed without
getting overwhelmed or angry with the client.
Friendly and Respectful. Because bond agents deal directly with clients, they need to be
friendly and respectful. Bailing someone out of jail is a process that involves communication and
interaction. People do not want to be associating with a bail bondsman who is mean and is taking
their business for granted without providing good customer service. Friendly bail bondsmen do

2. well because they help their clients feel at ease in a very stressful situation. In addition, respect is
an important aspect of any business transaction. Although some people look down on those who
have been or are incarcerated, having respect for the client regardless of their situation is an
important facet of a bail bondsman’s career. If you don’t respect someone, you are unlikely to
help them and do the best you can for them.
Because of these unique qualities listed above, bail bondsmen are special professionals
who have the capability of turning a jail nightmare into something much better. Make sure to
look for these qualities when selecting a bail bondsman for someone you know and care about or
for yourself, should the situation arise.
Photo Credit:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Handcuffs
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