If someone you know is arrested and asks you to post bail for them, you’ll likely need to go through a bondsman. While you won’t have to pay in full, you will have to cosign the loan with collateral. Any amount is usually repaid to you after the accused appears in court. But what happens if the individual doesn’t show up for their court date? Skipping a court appearance – commonly known as bail jumping – has a variety of consequences that impact both you and the accused. To better understand the risks, here are a few key points to know before you secure a bail bond.

What Happens When a Person Jumps Bail

What Happens to the Accused?

In Connecticut, the consequence of jumping bail is ultimately left up to the judge. In some cases – such as those involving felony charges – the judge will place a warrant out for the accused’s arrest, citing bail jumping as an additional crime. If the case involves only lesser crimes, the hearing may simply be rescheduled, especially when the accused informs the court of their failed appearance. 

What Happens to the Cosigner?

In general, it’s safe to assume that if the accused fails to appear for court, the bail will be held in default. Usually there’s a 90-day window for the accused to surrender and take the bail out of default. However, if they don’t appear, your bondsman may be required to collect on the collateral in order to cover the full amount that has been lost. If no collateral was offered, cosigners may be required to simply repay the full amount.

What Actions Can You Take to Get Out of Default?

If you want to avoid losing your collateral due to bail jumping, there are a few things you may be able to do to protect yourself. In most cases, the best option is to convince the accused to surrender to the court or turn them in on your own. In Connecticut, it’s possible to hire a bounty hunter, or bail enforcement agent, to locate the individual who has skipped their appearance and produce them in court.

No matter what the circumstances, figuring out the bail bonds process can be intimidating, especially if you’re a cosigner. Fortunately, DiAdamo-Tracey & Big Steve Bail Bonds is committed to making the experience as simple as possible. From clearly outlining the cosigner agreements to ensuring a quick release for your loved one, this bondsman of East Haven, CT, will guide you through every step. With reasonable terms and no limits on bond payment size, this bondsman is also recognized for minimizing financial worries. To learn more about these services, visit this agency online. If you’re looking to post bail, call (203) 787-2245 to speak with a trusted expert any hour of the day.