
Bounty hunting law
Bounty hunting involves licensed individuals, called bounty hunters or skip tracers, who track and apprehend people wanted for failing to appear in court or pay fines. They operate under specific legal guidelines, often working with the courts or bail bonds companies. Bounty hunters can arrest fugitives without the same rights as law enforcement, but they must follow state and federal laws, avoid excessive force, and respect individuals’ rights. Their authority is limited to locating and detaining suspects; they cannot carry firearms or perform law enforcement duties beyond their legal scope.