Through these donations, NABA continues to lead by example, fostering a cooperative and supportive environment within our industry. Learn more about our initiatives or how you can contribute to our ongoing efforts to support bail agents across the country.
At the National Association of Bail Agents (NABA), we are committed to strengthening and supporting the bail bond community across the United States. Here is a summary of our contributions to various state associations and groups, reflecting our dedication to the industry and its professionals.
NABA - National Association of Bail Agents
Welcome to the National Association of Bail Agents (NABA), your go-to platform for safeguarding the future of bail. We proudly represent Bail Agents and Fugitive Recovery Agents across the United States, standing strong in the face of opposition from well-funded anti-bail organizations and misleading media narratives. ​ Don't be fooled. Our community is richly diverse, composed of multigenerational, specialized businesses, retired military personnel, former law enforcement officers, and hard-working single parents. Our industry is vital to the success of every criminal justice system where we operate. Simply put, secured bail works. ​ NABA is committed to amplifying the true value of our industry to communities nationwide. Ready to join the cause? Click "JOIN NABA" today!
Secured Bail Matters
Bail is a Constitutional right protected by the 8th Amendment. In our profession, we facilitate swift freedom for the accused across the United States. Contrary to common misconceptions, bail agents don't set bail amounts; that's the judiciary's role. Judges weigh factors like criminal history, flight risk, community danger, and financial capability when setting bail amounts.
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Bail serves as the mechanism that allows the accused to prepare their defense freely. As bail agents, we are directly accountable to the court, ensuring the accused returns for trial.
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If someone 'skips bail,' Fugitive Recovery Agents are deployed to bring the individual back to the court or sheriff’s custody. Our actions make sure that crime victims have their day in court and that trials are not conducted without the accused present.
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NABA stands firmly behind the 'Right to Bail.' We take our responsibilities seriously, with a track record spanning hundreds of years in ensuring accountable release.
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Our industry employs what we call the 'circle of love,' involving family in the bail process. This familial support increases the likelihood that the accused will comply with release conditions.
Bail Reform
Bail reform has been a subject of debate in the U.S. for decades, gaining substantial financial backing in the last ten years. Although promoted as 'free,' these publicly funded bail programs are actually financed by taxpayers. Despite becoming a polarizing topic between Democrats and Republicans, the reality is that misguided political agendas from both sides have fueled misconceptions about bail reform.
Take New Jersey, for example. Under Republican Governor Chris Christie, the state shifted to publicly funded bail, unbeknownst to residents whose real estate taxes were lifted to pay for it. This led the Association of Counties to sue the state, citing an 'unfunded mandate.' As of now, New Jersey residents still finance accused individuals' releases through taxes. Even more striking, a ballot initiative under Christie eradicated the 'Right to Bail,' adopting a 'preventative detention' approach common in countries like China and Iraq.
Edward Forchion, a U.S. Marine veteran and African-American business owner, was held without bail for 447 days in New Jersey post-reform, losing everything in the process. Despite his ordeal, major organizations like the NAACP and the ACLU failed to advocate for him.
In New York, Democratic Governor Cuomo introduced bail reform in the 2019 budget, leading to sweeping changes. Implemented on January 1, 2020, the policy had to be immediately revised on April 1, 2020, due to its vast impact on communities.
NABA contends that blaming the bail industry for indigent offenders' plight is misleading. We believe comprehensive services should be offered to elevate the disadvantaged, with clear criteria for indigence.
NABA advocates for a balanced solution to bail reform, aiming to contribute constructively to this crucial national dialogue. We recognize that effective public safety policies go beyond party lines.
