Bounty hunters assist bail bondsmen in
locating clients who have missed trial dates. Most of the skills are
learned in the formal classroom or through experience. Those interested
in the profession can learn the terms and legal requirements that are a
foundation for this field with manuals and online classes.
Key Tasks and Skills for Bounty Hunting
Bail enforcement agents (BEA), also known as bounty hunters or
fugitive recovery agents, provide a number of services to their bail
bondsmen clients. The end result - apprehending a skipped client - is
only possible after the BEA completes his or her investigation.
Knowledge of computer databases is a key skill which allows the bail
enforcement agent to research a fugitive's habits and contacts.
Excellent people skills and the ability to notice details are also
important.
Bail Enforcement Agent Certification
Certification and licensing laws for bail enforcement agents vary
from state to state. Some states, such as Kentucky, do not have bail
bond systems and do not allow bail enforcement agencies to operate.
Illinois, Kentucky and Oregon do not permit bail enforcement agents to
arrest fugitives. In states that do permit bounty hunters, the licensing
requirements and procedures vary. For example, California and Texas
have more restrictive licensing requirements than most states.
California Fugitive Recovery Agent Requirements
Until early 2010, California required its fugitive recovery agents to
hold a bail agent license or private investigator license. Agents also
had to take a security guard class, a bail education class and a power
of arrest class. These classes required approximately 60 hours of study.
Fugitive recovery agents cannot display badges or clothing that implies
they are sworn law enforcement officers. Carrying weapons is strongly
discouraged. Agents must notify local law enforcement before attempting
to collar a fugitive. Licenses for bail enforcement and bail bond agents
are obtained from the Department of Insurance in California.
In Texas, bail enforcement agents must be sworn peace officers,
licensed private investigators or commissioned security officers. Texas
law restricts the activities of bounty hunters, preventing them from
entering homes without permission. Bounty hunters must also have a
written authorization from the bail agent before apprehending the
fugitive. State law includes a number of restrictions on where and how
fugitives are held after being captured.
Training for Bail Enforcement Agents
Restrictions like those mentioned above limit the training options
for bounty hunters. California and Texas require bail enforcement agents
to take classes in person from approved training programs. Many of
these programs, however, do offer introductory materials online. These
books and beginning courses give the student an overview of the
profession and some basic terminology.
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