Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions

Bail Bond FAQs

Select any question below to read the answer. If you don't find what you need, call or contact us directly.

• What is a bail bond?

  A bail bond is a financial guarantee paid to the court that allows an arrested person to be released from jail while awaiting trial. The bond assures the court that the defendant will appear at all scheduled court dates.

  When someone is arrested, a judge sets a bail amount. If the defendant or their family cannot pay the full bail amount out of pocket, a licensed bail bond agent (like Team One Bail Bonds) steps in. The agent pays the bail on behalf of the defendant in exchange for a non-refundable fee — typically 10% of the total bail amount — and assumes responsibility for ensuring the defendant appears in court.

• How much does a bail bond cost?

  In California, bail bond premiums are set by state law at 10% of the total bail amount. This fee is non-refundable — it is the cost of the bail bond service.

  For example, if a judge sets bail at $20,000, you would pay Team One Bail Bonds $2,000 as a premium. We would then post the full $20,000 bail with the court.

  Team One Bail Bonds also offers flexible payment plans so you are not required to pay the full 10% premium upfront. Contact us to discuss affordable options.

• What is the bail bonds process?

  The bail bond process typically follows these steps:

  • Arrest & Booking: The individual is arrested and booked at a local jail. A bail amount is set by the court.
  • Contact Team One: Call us at 844-BAIL-CALL or complete the online bail packet. We gather information about the defendant and the charges.
  • Paperwork & Payment: You sign the bail bond agreement and pay the 10% premium (or arrange a payment plan).
  • Bond Posted: Our agent posts the bond directly with the jail, initiating the release process.
  • Release: The defendant is released, typically within a few hours depending on jail processing times.
  • Court Appearances: The defendant must appear at all scheduled court dates. The bond remains active throughout the legal process.
• What happens if someone misses their court date?

  Missing a court date — also called "skipping bail" or "jumping bail" — has serious consequences:

  • The judge may issue a bench warrant for the defendant's arrest.
  • The full bail amount becomes due — meaning Team One Bail Bonds must pay the court the full bail amount.
  • We may use a bail recovery agent (bounty hunter) to locate the defendant.
  • Any collateral pledged to secure the bond may be forfeited.

  If a court date is missed for a legitimate reason (medical emergency, etc.), contact us and your attorney immediately. Courts sometimes allow a motion to reinstate bail if action is taken quickly.

• Do you offer payment plans?

  Yes. Team One Bail Bonds offers flexible payment plans to make bail affordable. We understand that a 10% premium can be a significant sum, especially in times of financial stress.

  Our agents will work with you to arrange a payment schedule that fits your situation. Typically, a down payment is required to initiate the bond, with the balance paid over time according to an agreed schedule.

  Call us at 844-BAIL-CALL or (951) 790-2663 to discuss available payment plan options.

• What is collateral?

  Collateral is property or assets pledged to the bail bond agent to secure the bond. It provides additional assurance that the defendant will appear in court as required.

  Common forms of collateral include:

  • Real estate (home equity)
  • Vehicles (cars, trucks, motorcycles)
  • Bank accounts or certificates of deposit
  • Jewelry, electronics, or other valuables

  If the defendant fulfills all court obligations and the bond is exonerated, collateral is returned. If the defendant fails to appear in court and the bond is forfeited, the collateral may be used to cover the bail amount.

  Not all bonds require collateral — contact us to find out what applies to your situation.

• Can I bail someone out of jail at night or on weekends?

  Yes — absolutely. Team One Bail Bonds is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

  Arrests happen at all hours, and we believe no family should have to wait until business hours to get help. When you call 844-BAIL-CALL, a licensed bail agent will answer immediately and begin the process right away, regardless of the time.

• What areas do you serve?

  Team One Bail Bonds is based in Riverside, CA and primarily serves:

  • Riverside County (all facilities)
  • Hemet
  • Murrieta
  • Temecula
  • San Diego
  • Perris
  • Moreno Valley

  Don't see your area? Call us — we may still be able to help. Visit our Locations page for more detail.