Surety bondsman versus property bondsman
Virginia recognizes two kinds of commercial bail bondsman, and the difference is what secures the bond.
A property bail bondsman pledges their own real estate, cash, or certificates of deposit as security. DCJS requires proof of $200,000 in collateral for each agent, and if that collateral is real estate it must be located in Virginia and free and clear of all liens.
A surety bail bondsman is licensed by DCJS and additionally licensed by the Virginia State Corporation Commission as a property and casualty insurance agent. They sell surety insurance on behalf of an insurer authorized in the Commonwealth. The insurer's balance sheet, not the bondsman's house, secures the bond.
For you as a client, the practical difference is capacity. A surety bond is not limited by one bondsman's personal collateral, which matters when the bond amount is large.
When a surety bond is the right instrument
High bond amounts are the clearest case. A six-figure bond can exceed what a property bondsman is authorized to write against their posted collateral.
Multi-jurisdiction matters are another. When charges are pending in more than one locality, an insurer-backed bond is generally simpler to place across courts.
Some courts and some charge types will simply specify the form of security they will accept. We will tell you which applies before you commit to anything.
FAQ — Surety Bonds
Is a surety bond more expensive than a regular bail bond?
No. Virginia's 10 to 15 percent premium band applies to bail bonds regardless of whether the bondsman is licensed as a surety or property bondsman. The security behind the bond changes; the price band does not.
What is the difference between a surety bond and a bail bond?
A bail bond is the purpose — securing release from custody. A surety bond describes how it is backed. A surety bail bond is a bail bond backed by an insurance company. The terms overlap, which is why they get used interchangeably.
Who is actually liable on a surety bond?
The insurer guarantees the court. The bondsman is liable to the insurer. The co-signer is liable to the bondsman. If the defendant appears as required, none of that liability is ever triggered.
Does a surety bond require collateral from me?
Sometimes. Whether we ask for collateral depends on the bond amount, the charge, and the co-signer's ties to the area — not on which license class writes the bond. Collateral, if taken, is returned when the bond is exonerated.
Can a surety bond be written for a bond of any size?
Within the limits of the insurer's authorization, yes, and those limits are far higher than an individual property bondsman's posted collateral. If the bond is large, tell us the number when you call and we will confirm capacity immediately.
How do I verify a surety bondsman is properly licensed?
Ask for the DCJS license number and verify it with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. For a surety bondsman, also confirm the property and casualty agent license with the Virginia State Corporation Commission. A legitimate bondsman will give you both numbers without hesitation.