General Questions
What is a Constable Bond?
A constable bond is a protective bond for the State of Massachusetts in the event that a constable fails to act legally or properly. This guarantee states that the surety company will cover any damages incurred as a result of a breach of contract, and will then pursue repayment from the Principal.
What is a Constable?
A constable and deputy are both peace officer, and while they both have similar duties, a constable is on a municipality level, while a deputy is on a county level. These duties consist serving judicial processes in their assigned jurisdiction.
How can I apply to be a Massachusetts Constable?
If the applicant has less than three years experience as a Constable, Massachusetts requires a certificate of completion for a Constable training course. With this experience or certificate, you can then apply for your Constable License through your municipality. Your Constable Bond is the final step in the process to becoming a full Constable. You must get references from four reputable citizens of your municipality, as well as a fifth reference from a BAR certified attorney. You must prove residence in the municipality you are applying to become a constable - do this with a utility bill, bank statement, or voter registration, as well as a drivers license linked to your current address, and birth certificate.
Once you have completed the application process for becoming a constable through your locality, you may apply for your Constable Bond at massbond.com. This is an instant bond, meaning that as soon as you submit your application and payment, we will issue and mail your Constable Bond.
How do I know if I need a Constable Bond?
If you are applying to become a Constable in the state of Massachusetts, you are required to submit proof of your Constable surety bond alongside your application.
What should I do in the event of a claim against my Constable Bond?
We advise that you explore all options to resolve any issue that could result in a claim before it is filed. If you are unable to do so, the surety will handle any remittance of damages to your client, at which point you will be liable for full repayment to the surety. In addition, a claim is a mark against the broker and could interfere with license renewals, not to mention the outward reputation of the broker and associated agency. Read more about wrongful claims below.
What if I have a false claim against my bond?
If you feel the claim is false or exaggerated, your surety will complete all due diligence and deny the claim. In this case, you can continue your business as usual. Claims that are found to be invalid against your bond will have no effect on your licensure, bond, or business operations.
How can I avoid claims against my a Constable Bond?
It should be a top priority to avoid claims against your bond at all costs. If a claim is filed, the principal is obligated to reimburse the surety for the entire amount that was paid out. If there is an issue that may result in a claim, it is advised that the bond-holder do whatever they can to resolve the issue before this becomes the case. Your surety bond is a promise to fulfill your obligations and duties, as well as follow the law. A claim against this bond indicates that the bond-holder knowingly and intentionally violated this agreement. If you are operating in compliance with this agreement, the potential claim may stem from a miscommunication with a client. It is very important to clear up this miscommunication before the claim is submitted. The Principal is legally responsible for all valid claims submitted against them.
Your surety will give you the chance to resolve the claim. If you fail to resolve the claim, your surety will issue repayment, and you will be obliged to reimburse the surety for damages.