If you or someone you love has ever been arrested, it’s likely that many questions have come up regarding jail time, court proceedings, and the consequences of not meeting one’s legal responsibilities. What exactly happens if someone decides to skip bail? This is a question we are frequently asked at Frank Calabretta’s Bail House and the answer varies based upon each individual circumstance. In order to understand the many consequences of skipping bail, one must also understand the difference between bail vs. bond and the role bail bond companies play in enforcing legal compliance.
Bail vs. Bond: Understanding the Difference
Being able to differentiate between bail vs. bond is essential to understand the legal responsibilities of each method of “buying” one’s release from custody. Bail refers to the amount of money or property (via collateral) that the defendant must provide to the court to secure his or her release before the trial date. This serves as a form of insurance that the defendant appears in court when required to do so. If the defendant doesn’t have the funds to bail him or herself out, or doesn’t want to put property on the line, they can apply for a bail bond. A bail bond is a type of financial guarantee provided by a bail bonding company on behalf of the defendant. The bonding company assumes responsibility for the full bail amount if the defendant fails to appear in court. When you search for “bail bonding companies near me,” it’s important to do appropriate research to determine if they are experienced, professional, and have a positive reputation in the community.
The Serious Consequences of Skipping Bail
- Forfeiture of Bail Amount: When a defendant skips bail, meaning they don’t show up to their appointed court date, the court typically issues a warrant for their arrest and forfeits the bail amount. This means that the defendant or the person who posted the bail (a friend, family member, or the bail bond company) loses the money or property they put up as collateral.
- Increased Legal Woes: Skipping bail is considered a serious offense. It can lead to additional criminal charges, such as failure to appear or bail jumping, which can each carry their own penalties, including hefty fines and potential jail time. Moreover, the defendant’s credibility may be significantly diminished in future legal proceedings limiting his or her options a great deal.
- Arrest and Detention: Law enforcement agencies and bail bond companies actively pursue individuals who have skipped bail. If apprehended by law enforcement or a bounty hunter hired by the bail bond agency, the defendant will be immediately taken into custody. Additionally, the court may impose more stringent release conditions or deny bail altogether, considering that the defendant is likely now considered a flight risk.
- Financial Liability: If a bail bonding company initially provided the bond, they will be responsible for paying the full bail amount to the court. The bonding agency can take legal action to recover these funds, potentially resulting in the seizure of assets or property belonging to the defendant or their cosigner.
Can You Bail Someone Out on a Sunday?
Another great question we hear that often accompanies an arrest is, “Can you bail someone out on a Sunday?” Because arrests can occur at any time, including on weekends or holidays, Frank Calabretta’s Bail House in Roseville, California is open 365 days a year, even on holidays and weekends. Our 24/7 availability means you can bail someone out on a Sunday, a Tuesday at midnight, or NYE at 3am! Holiday, weekend, day or night, we are there for you no matter what.
Searching for “Bail Bonding Companies Near Me”
When you type “bail bonding companies near me” into your search bar, don’t just verify the business’s location. It is of the utmost importance to work with a reputable and licensed agency with a proven track record, positive customer reviews, and a strong presence in the industry so be sure to read reviews and verify actual experience.
Skipping bail can have severe consequences, ranging from financial loss to increased legal problems. It is always in the defendant’s best interest to fulfill their legal obligations and appear in court as required. If you find yourself in need of a bail bonding company to secure the release of a loved one, remember to reach out to us at Frank Calabretta’s by calling (916) 782-7048. By working with our experienced professionals, you can navigate the legal process effectively and ensure a smoother and less stressful experience for everyone involved.
