By Melissa Lampert, KHTS Staff Writer
Finding a bail agent you can trust is key if you or your loved one has been arrested. So what qualifications does a person need to have to become a licensed bail agent?
“Knowing you can trust your bail agent is a weight off your mind during an already stressful situation,” said Inessa Chavez, vice president of All American Bail Bonds in Santa Clarita. “Bail agents must meet extensive requirements before receiving their license.”
In the state of California, bail agents must be California residents who have obtained specific pre-licensing education, according to the Bail Resource Center & Academy.
Bail applicants are required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of approved prelicensing classroom study, where they learn the duties and responsibilities of a bail licensee, ethics, laws and regulations and other related subjects.
Related: Bail Bonds In Santa Clarita: The History Of Bail
Applicants must then file an application for a license with the California Department of Insurance, purchase a bond in the penal sum of $1,000 executed by a California admitted surety, have their fingerprints documented, submit all required paperwork and pass a written exam.
To receive a bai license, applicants must also meet certain criteria according to federal law.
Anyone who has been convicted of a felony related to dishonesty or breach of trust is prohibited from conducting insurance business unless the Insurance Commissioner issues a written consent.
Bail licenses are issued in two-year terms. Once licensed, bail agents must complete a minimum of 12 hours of continuing education units in order to renew their license.
Related: The Bail Application Process At All American Bail Bonds
“At All American Bail Bonds in Santa Clarita, we take the strict requirements issued by the Department of Insurance very seriously– as all bail bonding companies should,” Chavez said. “Our licensed bail agents have the knowledge and experience necessary to ensure the speedy release of you or your loved one from jail 24-7.”
Article Source: “California 20-Hour Bail/Recovery Pre-Licensing Education, Volume 1” by the Bail Resource Center & Career Academy
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If your loved one is in custody and they wish to talk to an All American Bail Bonds representative, call:
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