Frequently Asked Questions

A bail bond is a financial guarantee that a licensed bail bondsman posts when the court allows this option for release. The fee for this service is called a premium. In North Carolina, the premium cannot exceed 15% of the bond amount. Release still depends on meeting the court's requirements and the detention facility's processing.

A judicial official sets the bond and release conditions. If a surety bond is an option, Amistad reviews the application, explains the requirements, and posts the bond after approval and completion of the paperwork. The detention facility then handles release. Learn more about how bail works.

An agent will explain the premium and payment requirements before you sign. Online payments are available through Amistad's payment process. Payment plans may be available only for qualifying bonds of $20,000 or more, subject to approval. Review our payment options.

Yes. Amistad offers secure online payments. Contact our team for payment instructions after the bond and requirements have been reviewed. If you have not started yet, complete the bail bond application. Submitting an application or making a payment does not guarantee release.

Payment plans may be available only for qualifying bonds of $20,000 or more, subject to approval. An agent will review your situation and explain any approved down payment and remaining payment schedule before you sign. See our payment-plan information.

We accept cash and property as collateral. Collateral is something provided as security for the bond, separate from the fee for our service. An agent will explain whether collateral is required and what can be accepted for your bond before you sign.

No, we do not accept vehicles as collateral for bail bonds.

Your collateral must be returned once liability on the bond has finally ended, within the timeframe required by North Carolina law. Contact Amistad if you need help checking the bond's status or arranging the return.

North Carolina law requires collateral to be returned within 15 days after liability on the bond has finally ended. Contact Amistad for help confirming that date and arranging the return.

The next step depends on where the person is held and the type of bond that has been set. Contact Amistad to confirm the bond details and posting requirements before traveling. Our Wake County bail information explains the local process.

We provide bail bonds services across all towns and cities in Wake County, including:

• Raleigh
• Cary
• Apex
• Garner
• Fuquay-Varina
• Holly Springs
• Knightdale
• Morrisville
• Rolesville
• Wake Forest
• Wendell
• Zebulon

The detention facility controls release timing. Staff must verify the bond, check for other holds, and complete their procedures. Amistad cannot guarantee when someone will be released. Learn more about the Wake County jail release process.

Missing court can lead to an arrest order and financial consequences for the bond. The person who co-signed may become responsible for the bond amount. Contact the attorney promptly and notify Amistad so the situation can be reviewed.

It depends on the circumstances. North Carolina law requires a premium refund in some situations and allows the bondsman to keep it in certain others. Ask Amistad to explain the reason for the return to custody and how the refund rules apply. An attorney can advise you about your rights.

Amistad helps with eligible criminal bail bonds, including misdemeanor, felony, DWI, and drug-related cases. We also provide immigration bond services, which follow a separate process. Visit local bail bonds or immigration bonds to find the information relevant to your situation.