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Bailment
What percentage can a bail bondsman legally charge for a bail bond?

What percentage can a bail bondsman legally charge for a bail bond?

Q: What is considered unreasonable bail?

Unreasonable bail is generally considered to be an amount that is excessively high compared to the nature of the crime or the defendant's financial situation. Courts aim for bail to be fair and not punitive, ensuring it serves its purpose of securing a defendant's appearance in court.

Q: What is 10% of a 20,000 bond?

Ten percent of a $20,000 bond is $2,000. This amount is often what a bondsman might charge if they operate under a 10% rate, but in Louisiana, the standard rate is 12%, which would be $2,400.

Q: What percentage of a bond do you pay?

In Louisiana, you typically pay 12% of the bond amount as the premium to a bail bondsman. This percentage is established by law and is the standard rate for bail bonds in the state.

Q: Why are bail bonds 10%?

Bail bonds are often cited as 10% because some states allow bondsmen to charge that percentage. However, in Louisiana, the legal rate is set at 12%. This percentage is intended to cover the risk the bondsman takes in guaranteeing the bail.

Q: How does a bondsman make money?

A bondsman makes money by charging a premium on the bail amount, typically a percentage set by state law. They also may charge additional fees for services, such as processing or collateral, which can increase their overall earnings.

Full question:

What is the (percentage) amount a bail bondsman can legally ask on a bail? I was told .10% and the bondsman agreed but once I paid off the amount, he came back and said it was .12%. Is he correct?

Category: Bailment
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Louisiana

Answer:

In Louisiana, the law states that the premium rate for commercial surety underwriters providing criminal bail bonds is set at twelve percent of the bond's face amount, or a minimum of sixty dollars, whichever is greater. This rate is determined by the legislature and is not subject to the insurance commissioner's rates. Additionally, any extra fees allowed under R.S. 13:718(I)(2) are not included in this premium rate and are separate from the limits established by this law. Therefore, the bondsman is correct in charging twelve percent.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What percentage does a bondsman get?

A bondsman typically charges a premium of 12% of the bond amount in Louisiana. This is the legally mandated rate for commercial surety underwriters and is set by state law. Any additional fees may apply but are separate from this premium.