Bounty hunters may seem like characters from a galaxy far away, but the reality is they exist, and they are constantly on-call for bail bond agents in Fort Worth. Worried about your bail bond’s status? Think you may be the next target for a bounty hunter?
Here’s everything you need to know about bounty hunters, bail bonds, and how to keep yourself out of a sticky situation.
Is Bounty Hunting Legal?
While the name sounds imposing and like it should be illegal, the reality is that bounty hunting is a legal action. Generally, bounty hunters have greater arrest authority than the police, but their rights and legalities vary from state to state.
Bounty hunters are regulated by the Department of Public Safety, and in order to be one, you must be:
- A licensed peace officer
- Private investigator
- Commissioned security officer
Although most states don’t have such strict requirements for becoming a bounty hunter, Texas’ regulations are in place to make the job safe for everyone involved.
Are There Limits Imposed on Bounty Hunters?
In most states, a bounty hunter can just enter a residence based solely on probable cause. However, in the state of Texas, bounty hunters can only enter a home with the consent of the home’s occupants.
In Texas, bounty hunters are usually equipped with handcuffs and guns. However, they must always state they are bounty hunters who work for a specific bail bond agency or legal entity.
Bounty hunters aren’t allowed to wear any badges or uniforms that imply they are a state or federal agent.
What Do Bounty Hunters Do For Agents?
When you are approved for a bail bond, you essentially take on the responsibility of adhering to the legalities that come with your freedom. From check-ins to court dates and mandated rehabilitation time, there is so much more than just getting out and going home.
If someone on bail fails to carry out these tasks or decides to jump bail and run, that’s when a call to a bounty hunter goes out.
If the bounty hunter is successful at turning in an offender to the authorities, they receive an agreed percentage of the bail. If they fail to bring in the culprit then they get nothing. So, it’s no surprise that in the past bounty hunters hired by Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds have had to approach residences under the guise of delivery workers and public service employees.
All of this trouble for a person out on bail can be avoided if you simply remember to follow up with your bondsman and show up to all of your scheduled court dates.
Start The Bail Bonds Process Right with Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds
If you’ve been arrested in Fort Worth and need to get out of jail, fast, Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds should be your first call. We can work with bonds of all sizes and are ready to help you! Get in touch with us to start the bail process!
