When you are charged with a crime, the judge may allow you to return home instead of staying in jail while you wait for your court date. However, before you are released, they might require you to post bond—a sum of money they keep unless you show up for your hearing. While you’re out on bail, you should hire a lawyer who can help devise a sound strategy for your defense. You should also be lying low, avoiding another negative encounter with law enforcement. To optimize the outcome of your case, avoid these three slip-ups.

3 Mistakes to Avoid When You’re Out on Bail

1. Leave the Country

The risk of taking a trip before your court date is obvious—if your flight is delayed, or your car breaks down, you could miss your court date and not get your bail money back. Even if you have had a vacation or work trip planned months before the hearing, cancel it. Leaving the country raises suspicions about your trustworthiness, as the judge or prosecutor may assume you’re making plans to avoid the trial and possible penalties altogether.

2. Get Arrested Again

Whether somebody picks a fight with you on the street or you’re caught driving under the influence, getting arrested while again could severely affect your circumstances. The judge might revoke bail altogether, forcing you to remain in jail until your hearing. If you obtained a bond, the bondsman might cancel their loan and keep the collateral you provided.

3. Miss Your Court Date

Above all, the most detrimental mistake would be to miss the court date you promised to attend when you posted bail. In this case, your reputation with the judge would be compromised, and your bail bond would likely be canceled. You might also be required to stay in jail so that the court won’t have to depend on your word to show up the next time.

For some people, avoiding these mistakes while out on bail is easy, but affording a bond is another story. In this case, turn to Bob Shropshire Bail Bonds of downtown Cincinnati, OH. They will work hard to ensure you can stay out of jail while you await your trial, and they offer 24-hour service for your convenience. They also provide janitorial bonds, contractor bonds, and several insurance policies. To learn more about their offerings, visit the website, or call (513) 721-3915 for immediate service.