Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Judges assign bail amounts based on the seriousness of the charges and the likelihood that a person might try to avoid trial. Bail is often set high to ensure the defendant returns to court rather than forfeiting a large sum of money. For many, coming up with the full amount is simply not possible. Bail bond companies step in to help by covering the cost for a fee—typically 10%—making release from jail more accessible. This not only eases the burden on overcrowded jails but also allows defendants to return to work, support their families, and prepare for their legal defense. Remaining active in their communities while awaiting trial ultimately benefits both the individual and society.

A bail bonds agent—also known as a bail bondsman—is a licensed professional who provides financial support to individuals who can’t afford to post bail on their own. In Pennsylvania, these agents must pass a state exam to legally operate. Their primary role is to post bail on behalf of a defendant in exchange for a fee, usually 10% of the total bail amount. If the defendant fails to show up for court, the agent has the legal authority to locate, detain, and return them to custody.

To put it simply: a bail bonds agent helps you get out of jail—for a price—and will track you down if you skip your court date.

No, they’re not police officers—but they do have the authority to arrest you. Bail bond agents, often referred to as bounty hunters when pursuing someone who skips bail, operate in a unique space within the justice system. While they’re not sworn law enforcement, they often use similar investigative tactics to track down individuals who fail to appear in court.

In some respects, they actually have more legal flexibility than police. For instance, law enforcement must obtain a search warrant based on probable cause before entering a private home. Bail agents, however, don’t need a warrant if they’re looking for a defendant who signed a bail contract. Courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, have upheld their right to enter properties without the same legal hurdles that apply to police.

When someone accepts help from a bail agent, they agree to specific terms, which may include waiving certain rights—such as protection against warrantless searches or standard due process during a bail-related arrest. Bail contracts might also include additional rules like curfews or drug testing.

In Pennsylvania, these agents can legally carry firearms and use them for protection, just like police. The main requirement is that they carry professional identification while performing arrests.

Yes, they do. Bail bond companies—and the agents or bounty hunters they employ—are legally permitted to locate, detain, and return individuals who have skipped bail. Whether it’s the bondsman personally or a hired recovery agent, both have the legal right to arrest a defendant who fails to appear in court and bring them back into custody. This authority stems from the bail agreement signed by the defendant, which allows the bail company to take action if the terms are violated.

Bail bond agents are private professionals who operate independently but work alongside the legal system. While they coordinate with courts and law enforcement, their primary client is the defendant—the person in need of bail. A reliable bondsman is committed to helping clients secure their release and navigate the legal process. However, if a defendant skips their court date, the bondsman shifts focus to protecting their own financial stake by locating and returning the individual to custody. Too many missed court appearances can lead to major losses and jeopardize the entire business.

No, the fee you pay to a bail bond agent—typically 10% of the total bail amount—is non-refundable. Even if you attend all court dates, that payment is the cost of using their service and is how they earn their income.

However, if you pay the full bail amount directly to the court yourself and follow through with all required appearances, that money will usually be returned to you after the case concludes, regardless of the verdict.

Yes, your arrest itself is part of the public record, and those records may include the name of the bail bond company that posted your bail. However, any personal details you share with the bail agent are kept private. Like attorneys, bondsmen follow strict confidentiality rules and do not disclose client information. The only exception is if a court issues a subpoena requiring the bondsman to provide specific details as part of a legal investigation.

Absolutely. Arrests don’t stick to a 9-to-5 schedule, so many bail bond companies—like Mike Vance Bail Bonding Service—offer around-the-clock support, including weekends. Being taken into custody can be overwhelming, especially outside of normal hours, so 24/7 availability helps ensure people get the help they need when they need it most.

Now, as for whether you can actually be released on a weekend—it depends. Some charges have predetermined bail amounts, which allows a bondsman to secure your release even on a Saturday or Sunday. But if you’re facing more serious charges that require a judge to set bail, you’ll likely have to wait until court is back in session—usually Monday.

While the bail bond industry can be financially rewarding, it comes with considerable risk. If a defendant doesn’t appear in court, the bond company may temporarily lose the full bail amount they posted and must cover the cost of locating and returning the individual to custody. Just a few missed court dates can lead to major losses.

On top of that, operating a bail bond company requires a large upfront investment. Bondsmen must maintain substantial financial reserves in order to stay licensed and keep their business running.

Not directly. A bondsman can’t automatically seize your tax return or garnish your wages just because you owe them money. However, like any creditor, they can take legal action by suing you in civil court. If they win the case, a judge can authorize wage or tax refund garnishment as part of the judgment.

If you live in Lancaster or Chester County, PA, contact Mike Vance Bail Bonding Service.