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Bail Bondsman Durham

What Happens When You Sign a Bond for Someone?

Introduction: The Story of Signing a Bond for a Friend

You get a late night phone call from a friend. They’ve been arrested and the only way they can get out of jail before their court date is for someone to sign a bond. You’re torn between helping them and worrying about the risks and you agree to sign. At that moment you’ve taken on a big financial and legal risk that could have long term consequences. But what does it really mean to sign a bond for someone?

Signing a bond may feel like helping a friend but it comes with big responsibilities. In this article we’ll break down what happens when you sign a bond for someone, covering everything from your financial obligations to what happens if the defendant doesn’t show up to court.

What is a Bail Bond?

When someone is arrested they may have the opportunity to post bail—a set amount of money determined by a judge to ensure the defendant shows up for future court dates. Not everyone can pay the full bail in cash. That’s where bail bonds come in. A bail bondsman Durham is a type of insurance that allows defendants to be released from jail for a fraction of the total bail amount, usually with the help of a bail bondsman.

A bail bond agent or cash only bondsman will post the full bail amount for the defendant, in exchange for a non-refundable fee (10% of the bail). If the defendant shows up to all court dates the bond is fulfilled. If they don’t show up the co-signer and the bail bondsman are on the hook for the costs.

The Co-Signer

As the co-signer you’re vouching for the defendant. You’re agreeing to take on the financial and legal risk if the defendant fails to meet their obligations. That means if the defendant doesn’t show up to court you’re on the hook for the full bail amount plus any fees.

As a co-signer you also need to make sure the defendant shows up to all their court dates. Essentially you’re their safety net, promising they’ll meet their legal obligations. If they don’t you could lose the collateral you put up like your home or savings.

Financial and Legal Obligations

Signing a bond is not just an emotional commitment to help a friend or family member—it’s also a financial risk. If the defendant doesn’t show up to court you may face:

  • Bail amount: You’ll have to pay the full bail if the defendant doesn’t show up to court.
  • Collateral: You may have to put up collateral like a car, property or savings. If the bond is forfeited, you lose these assets.
  • Credit damage: Some bail bond companies report defaults to credit agencies and can hurt your credit.

What If the Defendant Skips Bail?

As a co-signer, one of the biggest risks is the defendant skipping bail. If the defendant doesn’t show up in court, here’s what happens:

  • A warrant is issued for the defendant’s arrest.
  • The court will declare the bail forfeited and you’ll have to pay the full bond.
  • The bail bond company may hire bounty hunters or bail enforcement agents to track the defendant down.
  • You, as the co-signer, will have to pay the bail and could lose your collateral.
  • If the defendant is caught, the court may reinstate the bond but this can involve more legal headaches and fees.

How JC Bail Bondsman Can Help with Bail Bonds in Durham

The bail bond process can be tough, especially when you’re juggling the legal risks and emotional weight of helping someone in need. That’s where JC Bail Bondsman comes in. If you’re looking for the Bail Bondsman Durham, JC Bail Bondsman will walk you through the whole process.

With years of experience in the business, JC Bail Bondsman provides co-signers with guidance, helps defendants meet their court dates and offers local, trusted bail bond services in Durham so the process is as easy and painless as possible for you and the defendant.

What Happens After the Legal Process is Over?

Once the legal process is finished, whether it’s a trial or a plea deal, the co-signer’s obligations are done. If the defendant has met all their court appearances and the bond agreement, the bond is discharged and any collateral you put up is returned.

Now the co-signer is free from financial and legal obligations and the bail bond process is done.

Conclusion

Signing a bond for someone is an act of trust and support but it’s also a big responsibility. From the bond agreement to the final court appearance, you’re entering into a legal contract that can have financial consequences. Whether you’re thinking of signing a bond or need help with the process, JC Bail Bondsman will guide you through it.

Get help now.

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