Become an Arizona Bounty Hunter
Arizona has some of the strictest regulations in the country for bounty hunters. As such, anyone wishing to enter this career in the state must take care to meet all training and education requirements and to follow all rules, laws, and regulations to the letter to avoid prosecution. Failure to follow the laws can lead to a loss of the fugitive recover license and possible felony charges. If you want to become a bounty hunter in Arizona, here is what you need to know:
Education and Training
The process for becoming a bounty hunter in Arizona is similar to the process in other states and includes taking local or online courses to learn the processes and regulations involved in fugitive recovery. To work as a bounty hunter in the state, you must work for a bail bondsman who is properly licensed in the state. Because of the extensive, strict regulations in the state, completing training through a quality program is very highly recommended. The right program will focus heavily on criminal justice and will include courses and content that will qualify you to work in a wide variety of law enforcement and justice-related careers.
Licensing Requirements
If you wish to become a licensed bounty hunter in Arizona, you cannot be convicted of any felony or crime that involves possession or use of a deadly weapon. Candidates must also submit fingerprints for the state Department of Insurance. To maintain licensure, bounty hunters must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years and must stay current and in compliance with all state recovery practices and laws. Any deviation from the state regulations will result in an immediate revocation of license and possible criminal charges.
Weapons Laws
If you plan to carry a firearm in your bounty hunter duties, you must be sure to follow all state regulations. Weapons must be registered as required under the National Firearms Act. In addition, citizens over the age of 21 may carry a legal weapon in the open or concealed without a special permit, except for prohibited locations. Individuals carrying a weapon must disclose this fact immediately to law enforcement officers if questioned. Although a concealed-carry permit is not required, securing one has advantages to a bounty hunter, as many states have reciprocity agreements with Arizona.
Bond Process
A bounty hunter must secure written authorization from a licensed bail bondsman to make an arrest as well as a certified copy of the undertaking before pursuing a fugitive. During the course of the arrest, the bounty hunter is not allowed to enter any residence without owner. Bounty hunters may not wear, display, or carry any uniform, shield, emblem, or badge that implies affiliation with the state and must immediately identify themselves as bail recovery agents. In addition, bounty hunters from other states may not make an arrest in Arizona unless working with a state licensed bail recovery agent. Finally, no agents may be utilized in an arrest unless they are filed and documented on the case report.
Although Arizona has very strict regulations regarding bounty hunting in the state, this is still a relatively easy career to enter for those who have what it takes. The first step to take is to find a high quality training program that will prepare you to carry out the duties of the job while meeting all state regulations and laws. Once you have this training, you will be well on your way to enjoying one of the best careers of today.