What To Understand About Co-Signer Bail Bond Commitments

Posted on: 1 August 2022

When a friend needs to be bailed out of jail, they may call on you to do so. Many of those stepping up to do the right thing for a friend may be unaware of how things work.

Know About Bail Bonds 

A bail bond is a less-costly way to get out of jail than paying the full bail. A bail bonding agency will guarantee the full bail amount to the court in exchange for the payment of a bail premium. As the co-signer, you will be paying the premium to the bail bond agency.

Understanding the Bail Bond Obligation

Those released on bail must agree to all the bail conditions. The most important condition is that the defendant return for all court hearings regarding the case. If they do not show up for their court dates, you could be held responsible for the payment of the full bail amount. Take this example below:

The full bail charged by the court is $5,000. However, the bail bonding agency offers to get your friend released for a bail premium payment of 15% of that $5,000, or $750. If your friend fails to appear at their court hearing, the judge could issue a bench warrant and your friend could be arrested again. Also, you could owe the bail agency the full $5,000 bail price.

Tips on Dealing with Bail Issues

Bail bonding represents the easiest and cheapest way to bail a friend out of jail. The amount charged for the premium can vary and bail agents are friendly to work with. To ensure you are not left responsible for the full cost of the bail, follow these tips:

  1. Read the agreement and understand your obligations. Your bail agent will be happy to help you know what you are signing.
  2. Pay attention to the bail conditions because the violation of any of them by the defendant could result in bail being revoked. Speak with your bail agent to understand your options if that occurs.
  3. Speak with your friend and ensure they understand how you could be obligated if they choose not to appear in court.
  4. Keep up with your friend's court dates and remind them about them. Offer to go to court with them.
  5. If you suspect (or know) that your friend won't attend their court date, speak with the bail bonding agent. You have the option to revoke or cancel the bond. That means your friend can be arrested and that you are off the hook for any further costs.

To find out more, contact a company like Affordable Bail Bonds.

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