What Does A Bounty Hunter Do?
Bounty hunters work closely with bail bondsmen. Their main clients are felons, fugitives and other law-breaking individuals. Becoming a bounty hunter is a very dangerous job and requires a lot of training. The minimum requirements of a bounty hunter are:
- Be at least 18-21 years old (depending on state)
- US citizen or legal resident
- Never convicted of any felon or crime (minor traffic violations are considered)
The first step is to check with your state if bounty hunters are legal. Some states like Illinois, Kentucky, Texas, Wisconsin and North Carolina do not allow the service of these professionals.
Do further reading on the statutes and regulations concerning arrest of fugitives in other countries or states. A country or state may not allow entry to bounty hunters and may result to being arrested. Majority of bounty hunters are known to practice only in the US. Other countries prohibit any service of bondsmen and bounty hunters.
Working as a bounty hunter is risky. Since they are out to arrest fugitives, troubles always accompany bounty hunters. This is also the same reason why bounty hunters carry firearms with them. Acquiring firearm licenses and permits are also necessary for bounty hunters.
Bounty hunters are required to undergo professional training in accredited bail enforcement schools. They work like private investigators and need to know as much as they can about a client. Bounty hunters are experts in being able to
- Detect lies
- Skip trace
- Compromise and negotiate
- Effectively use internet and phone records
- Find out a person’s past through other family members and friends
With the right training, a bounty hunter can contact bail bonds agencies and apply. Most agencies, however, do not accept bounty hunters without experience. The best thing to do is to find a certified bail bondsman and offer your services for free. This will serve as a hands-on training or an internship.
Most bounty hunters work independently. Like a bail bondsman, their income depends on the number of clients they get. Typically, a bail bonds agency charges 10% -15% on top of the original bail. This is how agents and bounty hunters make a living.
Bounty hunters work on an indefinite schedule. They work round the clock and operate 24 hours a day. They also travel extensively just to track down clients.
