If you or a loved one requires help from a bail bondsman to be released from jail, it is important to understand what happens if the accused does not fulfill their obligations. When a defendant does not show up to court, it can spell trouble for them and their indemnitor (co-signer). Below are four consequences of this action.

What Happens if You Jump Bail?

1. Financial Consequences

If you hire a bail bondsman for a loved one’s release, you may also be vouching for that person to show up for their court date in the event you sign an indemnity agreement. This contract essentially makes you and the surety both liable for the the defendant’s appearance in court. If they skip that appointment, you risk losing up to the full amount of the bond and any collateral you gave to the bondsman. 

2. Civil Liability

When you or a loved one does not fulfill their court obligation and the failure to appear is considered intentional, whoever put up the money and collateral to the bail bondsman is civilly liable. Since you indemnified the contract for the appearance of that person, you are now accountable.

3. Legal Trouble

For the arrested person, jumping bail may be considered a criminal offense in some jurisdictions and could result additional charges being filed. The initial criminal charges do not go away and more can be added.

​​​​​​​4. Bail Enforcement

If the defendant cannot be found and continues to dodge the obligations to their case, a bail enforcement agent may be sent to recover the missing person. Once recovered, the bail jumper is promptly turned over to the county of jurisdiction to await their trial for the initial offense as well as the charges for not showing up to court. Bail may also no longer be an option.​​​​​​​

​​​​​​​5. What to expect from a professional

A professional Bail Bond company will likely require indemnitors. But they will also be thoroughly involved in updating the defendant and indemnitor(s) of upcoming court dates. They will be in court with you and will often request to remain on the bond in the event the defendant fails to appear by some sort of accident or unintentional miscommunication. 

 Let’s face it.  Life happens and if you have a personal emergency, an illness or other reasonable cause for failing to appear, most courts understand as long their is someone to communicate the mishap. 

 However, even in the event that a defendant wilfully fails to appear, professional sureties should always treat defendants with respect and dignity. The bail business is just that… a business and you should expect to be treated respectfully even if you break the contract that was signed. 

Nicholas Bail Bonds offers 24-hour bail bond services to the West Plains, MO, area, making them the reliable, trustworthy bail bondsman to call when you or a loved one has been arrested. Each individual receives honest, compassionate services to suit their situation. The bondsman will also answer any questions you may have about the process. If you are in Southern Missouri, call the agents at (417) 255-1109 or visit them online for more information about how they can assist.