Question about defendant monitoring software/databases

I'd like to create a system (if one does not already exist) to manage cases. I tried using a program called "Card File" that can hold basic information and update continually, but it was lacking. I'd like to see if there is already software that exists or a database program that will allow me to put in the defendant's information as well as the cosigner's and pertinent case notes, as well as pictures and tattoos. Also, I would like it to be able to have a query function so when I enter in the case number or name of the defendant it will pull up the information and be able to modify it (ie case notes, more pictures, etc).

I do know the cons' of this idea, hard-copies are crucial and yes I will always still use them (note pages attached to the original file), but I still would like an electronic way of doing so. Are there ways to do something like this through MS Office or Lotus, other software out there, or should I use pre-existing software out there for bondsmen, and if so what program?

This is not for skip-tracing, this is strictly for data-entry and logs. I'd appreciate any input.

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There is something to be learned from a rainstorm. When meeting with a sudden shower, you try not to get wet and run quickly along the road. But doing such things as passing under the eaves of houses, you still get wet. When you are resolved from the beginning, you will not be perplexed, though you still get the same soaking. This understanding extends to everything. - From the Hagakure

Ben
Use Microsoft Access, it is brain dead simple ( I can use it ) and is queriable by any number of fields that you decide. I would suggest all PII, Personally Identifiable Information, known associates(s), occupation(s), type of crimes committed, bondsman etc. Obviously, the more complicated that you make it, the more the likelihood that you will not use it. Remember the KISS principle.

This database will become a living document that constantly evolves for you. It will also be a great relationship building tool with local detectives that might want to search for carpenters that molest children as an example.

Best of luck,

Scott

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R.E. "Scott" MacLean III

"Leaders are like Eagles, you never see them in a flock, but one at a time"

Chesapeake Group Investigations, Inc.
Chesapeake Bail Bonds
877-574-0500
301-392-1100 (fax)
301-392-1900 (Office)

Thanks, I'll try that. After reading the post it's a bit costly - I have a basic version of MS Office without Access, but will look into purchasing it either online or see if Office Depot has it. I liked your point on being able to share with local PD - I mean, we cross paths a lot - about our local heroes...like those "carpenters". Thanks!

-Ben

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There is something to be learned from a rainstorm. When meeting with a sudden shower, you try not to get wet and run quickly along the road. But doing such things as passing under the eaves of houses, you still get wet. When you are resolved from the beginning, you will not be perplexed, though you still get the same soaking. This understanding extends to everything. - From the Hagakure

Ben, Benny, Benneio, Bennnnn
I have an open access version of Office.... Access is one of the programs. I will let you copy it (or whatever the correct term is) to your computer.

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Thomas SnoWolf
FRN# 1999
GAPB 20120726
NSIS ST0707
http://www.rocksolidrg.com
"The hero is not the man that acts without fear,
He is the man that acts inspite of fear"

I have been using a ms access for case management for several years now with favorable results. I downloaded a membership database from ms office online and was able to tweak it into a offender/client database for both recovery work and other investigative activities. I can even do some basic bookeeping with it and even print invoices. It has worked ok for maintaining defendant/indemnitor info but it falls extremely short when it is compared to commercially available bail software.

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Luke Farrell

AE Bail Bonds
Aequitas Services LLC.
"Your Bail Recovery Solution"
1-888-610-AEBB
Pa: 610-624-1706
De: 302-476-2301
Fax:1-866-633-2321
De. BEA Badge#093
Pa. Bail Bondsman
License#: 588438

Although I don't use it. Bailfish.com seems pretty good, I don't know how stable it is however. The best part, is its free.

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Joshua P. Woodby
P.I./Surety Agent/Washington Co. TN Appointed Process Server
Owner, A Beagle Investigations and Process Service
TN P.I. License #6232, TN P.I. Company License #1496
Senior Agent, A Bail Away Bonding Company Inc.
T.A.P.B.A. Certification Always Current