Skipping bail is a failure to make an appointed court date on criminal charges. When a bail bond is initially posted, it’s not only to get a suspect out of jail. It’s also to ensure they show up to court and honor all their legal obligations. Skipping bail comes with the potential for some serious consequences. Here’s a closer look at three of those consequences.

What Happens if You Skip Bail?

1. Forfeiture of Bail Money

When a person posts a bail bond, they put up a certain amount of money, either as cash or collateral. If the suspect skips bail, this money can be forfeited in full to the courts and will not be returned.

Because this can have serious financial implications for the defendant—or for their loved one who posted the bail bond—forfeiture is typically only used as a last resort. If the defendant can satisfactorily explain to the court their failure to appear, there is a possibility that the courts will then dismiss the forfeiture.

2. Additional Charges

Failure to appear is a criminal charge. It will be added to the complaint(s) already filed against the defendant. In addition to designing a legal defense for the initial charges, the defendant will now have to have a legal strategy for explaining their failure to appear. In other words, skipping bail will lead to more legal troubles and further complicate what is likely an already complex situation.

3. Arrest

The court also has the right to issue an arrest warrant for someone who has skipped bail. Police will be informed, and officers will be looking for the suspect. A fugitive recovery agent might also be hired to track down the defendant and return them to custody.

Bear in mind that if a loved one knowingly gives shelter to a defendant with an active arrest warrant, the loved one can also be brought up on criminal charges.

Anyone posting a bail bond must understand the implications of failing to appear in court. When you need help getting someone out of jail in the Chattanooga area, contact Cumberland Bail Bonds Co. Founded in 1992, this family-owned and -operated company is built on principles of fairness and trust for all residents of Tennessee. Just because you don’t have the money to post bail doesn’t mean you should remain incarcerated until trial. They’re committed to helping clients in need get back home to their family and friends. Find out more about the team and their principles online. You can reach them anytime, day or night, at (800) 468-1161.