Why Choose Us?

Professional Relationships & Local Expertise

Q: You’ve worked in Chester and Lancaster counties for decades. How have your relationships with local DAs and judges helped you provide a better service?

Over the past 20+ years in Lancaster County and now expanding into Chester County, I’ve built strong working relationships with district attorneys, private attorneys, judges, magisterial district justices, and clerks of court. These relationships matter because they create a foundation of trust and respect. Many professionals in the judicial system—especially in Lancaster and increasingly in Chester—reach out to me with questions about bail procedures, knowing that I’ll provide accurate answers. My reputation has always been to operate legally, transparently, and fairly. Having that credibility not only benefits me but also ensures my clients get the most professional and reliable service possible.

Q: How does your deep familiarity with the local courts and jails in Southeastern PA benefit your clients?

Being familiar with the local courts and jails saves clients stress, confusion, and wasted time. I know the layouts of the courthouses, the best parking options, and even what to expect from specific judges or magisterial justices. I regularly visit these courts, so I can give clients a “heads up” on things like construction or security changes. With jails, every facility operates differently—release times, locations, and procedures vary widely. Some require pickup at a guard shack, others don’t. Some release on a set schedule, others within a time window. Because I know these details, I can guide families step-by-step so they don’t waste hours waiting around or get lost in the process.

Q: Can you explain how a bondsman’s reputation and relationships within the legal community can affect a client’s case?

While my reputation doesn’t directly affect the outcome of a client’s case, it absolutely impacts the level of trust and service they receive. In this business, reputation is everything. I make it a point to do things the right way—legally, professionally, and thoroughly. Clients want to know their bondsman is honest, knowledgeable, and respected. That’s why I take the time to explain every part of the process, answer every question, and make sure clients feel informed before making a financial commitment. The result has been consistently positive feedback and 5-star reviews because people see the value in working with someone they can trust.

Q: What specific advantages does your long-standing presence in this community give to the people you serve?

The biggest advantage is simple: people know me. Over time, they’ve learned that I’m straightforward, fact-based, and thorough. My law enforcement background gives me a deeper understanding of the statutes, procedures, and nuances of the bail process than most other bondsmen. Clients can count on me to be both quick and efficient, but also thorough and detail-oriented—never cutting corners. That combination is what sets me apart and gives my clients confidence that their situation is being handled properly.

Q: How do you maintain professional and respectful relationships with the police and court staff while advocating for your clients?

Respect and professionalism are non-negotiable in my work. I advocate firmly for my clients, but I always do so while maintaining courtesy toward law enforcement, clerks, and court staff. These are people I work with regularly, and having mutual respect ensures smoother communication and faster resolutions. My role is to guide my clients, not create unnecessary conflict, so I balance professionalism with strong advocacy to get the best possible outcomes.

Speed, Availability & Customer Service

Q: You typically post a bond within 24 hours. What factors allow you to work so quickly?

I own my business, which means I make the decisions. There are no extra layers of approval or bureaucracy slowing things down. I’m efficient with paperwork and payments, and I have strong working relationships with the records departments at every prison I service. In many cases, I can process a bail in a matter of hours, while competitors—especially larger companies—may take days. That speed is one of the biggest benefits I provide.

Q: Why is speed so critical in the bail bonding process, and how do you ensure that your service is as fast as possible?

Families want their loved ones home as quickly as possible. The sooner bail is posted, the sooner the stress and uncertainty end. From a business standpoint, speed is part of good service. It reflects efficiency, builds trust, and leads to referrals and repeat business. I stay fast by keeping communication open, collecting paperwork and payment promptly, and working closely with prisons to move the process along.

Q: What steps do you take to guide a client through the bail process, making it less intimidating and stressful for them?

Most clients have never gone through the bail process before—it can be overwhelming. That’s why I carefully explain every step, from charges and detainers to paperwork and payments. I walk families through what to expect at the prison, how the release works, and what their responsibilities are. I make myself available by phone or text at any time, answering every question—whether it’s one or one hundred. My goal is always to reduce stress by giving clients clarity and confidence before they commit financially.

Q: What does it mean to you to be a ’24/7 service’? How do you ensure that you are always available for people in crisis?

Arraignments happen at all hours—sometimes 6:00 a.m., sometimes 2:00 a.m. Families can call me 24/7, and while bail might not always be posted immediately, I can get the process started right away. That includes gathering information, explaining procedures, collecting paperwork, and preparing payments so that when the courts open, we’re ready to move. Being available around the clock means families never feel alone during a crisis.

Q: What is your philosophy on customer service during a time when a person or their family is in a very difficult and emotional situation?

Customer service has to be the top priority. Clients are often stressed, emotional, and spending a substantial amount of money. I make sure they understand exactly what they’re signing, what the costs are, and what responsibilities they have. I also make sure expectations are clear—whether there are multiple charges, detainers, or other complicating factors. My goal is that no client ever walks away saying, ‘I didn’t know that.’ Transparency, honesty, and thoroughness are the cornerstones of how I provide customer service.

Business Philosophy & Trust

Q: What’s the most important thing a person should look for when choosing a bail bondsman?

Trust. You want a bondsman who is honest, thorough, and available. Be cautious of someone offering a deal that seems ‘too cheap’—that’s often a red flag. Instead, look at professionalism, reviews, and reputation. Call around and ask questions. The right bondsman will give clear answers, not half-truths, and will walk with you through the entire process.

Q: In a business that deals with people at their most vulnerable, what values do you hold most important?

Integrity and transparency. Families deserve to know exactly what they’re signing, what they’re paying for, and what responsibilities they’re taking on. I never want a client to feel misled. I explain everything clearly, whether it’s related to multiple charges, parole holds, or detainers. My role is not to take advantage of people, but to give them the knowledge they need to make the best decision for themselves.

Q: How do you build trust with your clients, especially given the sensitive nature of their situation?

By being open and honest—always. Sometimes it doesn’t make sense to post bail, and I’ll say that. Other times, it’s the best option. I make sure clients have all the information they need to decide what’s right for them. Every situation is unique, and I take the time to understand their goals before guiding them. Trust comes from honesty and from clients knowing I always have their best interests in mind.

Q: Beyond just posting bail, what is your ultimate goal when a client chooses Mike Vance Bail Bonding Service?

My ultimate goal is long-term sustainability through trust and professionalism. I want my business to be known as reliable, respected, and client-focused. If someone needs help in the future, I want them to think of me first—because I was honest, I was available, and I gave them the service they needed when it mattered most.

As Detective in Law Enforcement

How has your 20 years of experience as a detective given you a unique perspective on the bail bonding process?

After 20 years in law enforcement, I’ve developed a deep ability to read people, understand the law, and navigate the court system. I’m well-versed in legal statutes and court procedures across multiple counties. I know which attorneys are effective and which ones may not serve your best interest. My background gives me a comprehensive understanding of how the justice system functions—from the charges you face, to the attorney representing you, to how the statutes are applied. It all works together, and I’ve lived it from the inside out.

How does your law enforcement background help you better understand the legal system and the needs of your clients?

My experience allows me to walk clients through each step of the legal process with confidence. I served as a Lancaster County narcotics detective and was part of the Lancaster County Drug Task Force, making me highly knowledgeable about Pennsylvania’s Controlled Substance Act (Act 64). I know what to expect at each stage—preliminary hearings, arraignments, status conferences, probation violations, federal detainers, Nebbia hearings, and more. I often answer questions that your attorney might later go over with you, helping you prepare mentally and strategically from the start.

What is the difference between working with a bondsman who has a law enforcement background versus one who doesn’t?

Choosing a bail bondsman with a strong law enforcement background, like myself, gives you a significant advantage. Most clients—especially those going through this for the first time—have urgent questions about what to expect. They’re looking for someone who understands both the legal system and the human side of this situation. I can guide them with accurate, experience-backed advice, whether it’s procedural insights, how to navigate the charges, or even attorney recommendations. I’ve walked in the shoes of those on the other side of the courtroom. I know how prosecutors think and how cases are handled. That experience is invaluable in helping clients move forward with clarity and confidence.

Can you share an example of a time your experience as a detective helped you resolve a complex situation for a client?

There have been several cases, particularly involving narcotics charges, where clients or their attorneys asked me to review discovery and evidence. I’ve provided honest, unbiased opinions on how law enforcement handled the case and whether the evidence is solid or questionable. I’ve collaborated with defense attorneys to break down police procedures and assess the strength of the prosecution’s case. While I can’t name just one example, I can say that I frequently help clients better understand the position they’re in and what options they may realistically have.

How do you use the knowledge gained from your time as a detective to ensure the fastest possible release for your clients?

I always start by asking the right questions before money changes hands. If someone calls and tells me their loved one is in jail with a $10,000 bail for a second DUI, I don’t just quote a price—I ask if they’re on probation, if there’s a potential detainer, or if other pending charges could lead to a revocation of bail. Knowing how the system operates allows me to advise families clearly and accurately. If you’re spending hard-earned money, it’s my responsibility to make sure you’re doing so wisely. My goal is to ensure that once bail is posted, there are no unnecessary delays—and if there are, you’ll know about them upfront.