Verify Before Paying

If you or a loved one has recently been arrested in Georgia, navigating the bail process can be overwhelming, especially when the urgency and stress of the situation might make you vulnerable to scams. As a seasoned DUI lawyer in Georgia, George Creal has seen an uptick in fraudulent activities targeting individuals in distress. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself from bail bond scams:

Understanding the Scam:

Scammers often prey on the emotional distress of families and friends by posing as bail bond agents. They might contact you unsolicited, claiming they can expedite the release of your loved one from jail. These fraudsters typically insist on payment through services like CashApp, Venmo, or other digital payment platforms, which are difficult to trace and reverse.

Red Flags to Watch Out For:

1. Unsolicited Contact: Be highly skeptical of anyone contacting you out of the blue, claiming to be a bail bondsman. Legitimate bail bond agents do not typically solicit business this way.
2. Payment Methods: Immediate requests for payment via digital apps or services like CashApp are a huge red flag. Official bail bond companies usually accept checks, cash, or credit cards but will never push for payment through untraceable means.
3. Urgency: Scammers create a sense of urgency, pressuring you to make quick decisions without verification. Remember, legitimate services understand the need for time to verify their credentials.
4. Lack of Documentation: Real bail bond companies provide contracts and paperwork. If someone is asking for money without providing any formal documentation or agreement, it’s likely a scam.

Steps to Safeguard Yourself:

• Verify the Arrest: Before you do anything, confirm the arrest independently. Call the jail where your loved one is supposedly being held to verify their status.
• Official Sources: Check the Sheriff's Department website or contact them directly to get a list of officially sanctioned bail bond companies. Here’s how you can do this:
  • Visit the official Sheriff's Department website for the county where the arrest happened.
  • Look for a section on bail bonds or inmate services to find approved bail bond companies. Click here: for a list for Metro Atlanta Sheriff's Departments Authorized Bail Bonding companies. 
• Contact a Lawyer: If you’re unsure, reach out to an attorney like George Creal. Having legal advice can guide you through the process safely and legally.
• Never Pay Upfront Without Verification: Never send money until you’ve verified the identity and legitimacy of the bail bond agent.

George Creal’s Advice:

"Scammers take advantage of people when they are at their most vulnerable. It's crucial to take a step back, verify the facts, and proceed with caution. Only use services that you can confirm are legitimate through official channels. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true - like promising an immediate release for a low fee - it probably is a scam."

In times of legal trouble, acting quickly does not mean acting without due diligence. If you're unsure about the authenticity of a bail bond service, or if you feel pressured, stop, verify, and consult with legal professionals. George Creal and his team are committed to helping you navigate these situations with integrity and caution.

Stay safe and always verify before you decide.
Remember, legitimate services are there to help, not to hurry you into a decision that could lead to further distress.