There are many things holding back the bail bonds industry, but one issue stands out among all. It is largely due to the bail industry's political influence. The bail bond business, run by four brothers, is a well-funded political force, and they are fighting to keep it that way. In California, the industry is up in arms over legislation to overhaul the money bail system. Judges, civil rights organizations, jail runners, and corrections officials are all in favor of reforming the money bail system.
While the bail bond industry is a crucial component of the criminal justice system, many people question its ethics. For starters, many defendants are poor, and the vast majority of people charged with crimes are not well-off. As a result, the bail bonds industry's practices are causing many people to lose their jobs and pay their rent or food bills. Judges are also complaining that some bail bonds practices are excessively lenient, and that accused people are able to walk free even after being convicted of a crime.
Despite strong consumer protections and strict regulation, some customers feel forced to pay extra fees to bond agents. One home health care aide recently paid a bond agent $1,000 to courier money to the courthouse. Another defendant in a serious domestic violence case was charged $300 to have his ankle monitor reattached. It is unclear whether the bail agent is legally allowed to charge this extra money.
The bail bonds industry has a history of promoting unethical practices and ripping off customers. However, this industry is profitable and relatively unregulated. In fact, only 10 insurers in the country underwrite over $14 billion of bonds each year. And while the industry has been profitable, the industry's profits are inconsequential. The biggest problem is that bail bondsmen are often portrayed as rough-and-tough men who prey on the unfortunates of others. Modern-day bonding companies are family-owned, and many are even active in their communities.