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If you are interested in a fast paced work environment that gets your adrenaline pumping, then you might want to consider a career as a bounty hunter, also know as a bail enforcement agent or recovery specialist. Every year more than 35,000 criminals skip bail, refusing to appear in court, and it is up to the bounty hunter to locate and apprehend them. This page will provide you with information on how to become a bounty hunter.
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Tips
- In Oregon, Illinois, and Kentucky bounty hunting is Illegal
- Always be aware of the law and how it applies to bounty hunters on both the federal and state level
- Always be on alert; never underestimate the fugitive, even the non-violent offenders
- Be prepared for a lot of leg work; researching and following leads that may lead nowhere
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Become a Bounty Hunter
This video gives an overview of what it takes to become a bounty hunter. One of the most important personality traits of a bounty hunter is examined – the ability to think and react at a moments notice, realizing that it is often the person you think is the least harmful that will end up being the most dangerous. The video also discusses that those that have been convicted of a felony or are not a U.S. citizen cannot become a bounty hunter. Also, depending on the state you wish to work from, you will need to take specific classes to get certified.
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Introduction
Are you the type of person that lives on the edge, thrives on adrenaline and is always looking for a good challenge? Do you consider yourself strong and fit, someone that others try not to provoke? If so, you might want to seek a job as a bounty hunter, hunting down criminals that are evading the law by skipping bail. This guide will provide you with information on the field of bail enforcement and walk you through the process of becoming a bounty hunter. -
The Job of a Bounty Hunter
Bounty hunters are hired to apprehend fugitives that have jumped bail by not appearing at their court proceedings. They are usually hired by a bail bondsman, and spend a great deal of their time searching for the criminal they are pursuing, researching and following leads that often take them across state lines. Although the job can be dangerous, most of the criminals being sought are not the most violent fugitives, who rarely are let out on bail. Usually when a fugitive is found, for example, they will surrender quietly. Some of the duties you will likely be performing include:
- Transport of the fugitive to the authorities
- Performing surveillance type work
- Investigating. This usually involves studying phone records, performing background checks and tracing license plates.
Skills of a Bounty Hunter
If you have decided to pursue a career as a bounty hunter, there are numerous skills that you should begin to develop. These skills will help you become more proficient at the job and more likely to be hired by potential clients. Skills to acquire include:
- Research skills
- Communication and people skills
- Computer skills
- Martial arts or related fighting skills
- Learning to tell when a person is lying to you
- Interviewing and negotiating techniques
- Surveillance
- Apprehension related techniques
Step 1: Know the Law
One of the most important things to keep in mind as an aspiring bounty hunter is that the law dictates all your actions. There are both federal and state laws that you will need to become familiar with in order to practice as a bounty hunter, who often prefer to be called the more politically correct terms of recovery specialists or bail enforcement agents. The main reason for this is that you may be crossing state lines, and every state will have different laws set in place for bounty hunting.Step 2: Undergo Training
Training is an important part of bounty hunting. Not only will you be dealing with criminals, but also law enforcement agents that are operating within the confines of the law. As such, you will need to acquire and develop skills and methods that can be used in dealing with both. Although there are no specific educational or training requirements for bounty hunters, you may want to consider:
- Taking college coursework in criminal justice, research skills or business and marketing
- Attending a bounty hunter training school or program
- Undergo firearm training
- Seek law enforcement or military training
- Take martial arts classes
Step 3: Obtain a License
Licensing requirements are different in each state, so make sure to find out what you need to do in the particular state you will be working in. Some states may perform background checks as part of the licensing process, and you will need to find out what the laws are in your state regarding gun permits and registration. Some states may even require you undergo specific training in order to obtain your license.Step 4: Market Yourself
Marketing is a big part of becoming a successful bounty hunter. Once you have established yourself as a skilled bounty hunter, people may seek out your services, but until that happens you will need to get your name circulating. You may:
- Build and maintain a website
- Seek out a mentor. This will not only help you strengthen your own skills, but will help you make contacts within the industry.
- Appeal to local bail bondman. Let them know you are starting up your business and are available for jobs.
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