[Kickass Conservative]

That is their fee, 10% of the Bail amount. They cover the $150,000 which is refundable to them once Bail is either ended or revoked by the Court.

The Zimmerman's still have to put up $150,000 in Collateral (house equity, cars, retirement funds, accounts, etc.) so the Bail Bondsman will have recourse to cover the loss if Zimmerman doesn't show up for trial.

[scooby321]

Is the whole $15,000 a non-refundable cash payment to the bond agency?

NBC and other Media outlets will pay the Zimmerman’s expenses

[goseminoles]

Not true. Z family puts up 15000. The rest is insured through a surety bond.

[circlecity]

"They cover the $150,000 which is refundable to them once Bail is either ended or revoked by the Court."

Unless Zim skips - then its time to hire Dog the Bounty hunter or the bondsman loses the whole hundred fifty grand.