Learning About Criminal Law Proceedings

Will A Judge Reinstate Your Bond After It Is Forfeited?

After making bail, you are required to meet certain requirements that are established by the court. If you fail to do so, there is a chance that you could face a bond forfeiture. If you are concerned that you have forfeited your bond, here is what you need to know.

What Happens After a Bond Forfeiture?

Bond forfeiture typically results from a missed court appearance. However, if there were other conditions placed on your bond, such as having to adhere to a curfew, and you failed to meet those, a court could rule that your bond be forfeited.

When this happens, any funds or assets that were put up for your release will be turned over to the court. At that point, the bondsman will receive notice that your bond has been forfeited. The bondsman can choose to explain why you did not meet the conditions of the bond or did not appear in court. He or she also has the option of turning you into the court.

It is important to note that you need to act as soon as you realize that the bond has been forfeited. If not, there is a risk that the bondsman could send a bounty hunter to locate you. There is also the risk that you could face more serious legal consequences, such as a charge of absconding.

Can You Have the Bail Reinstated?

Having the bond forfeited does not necessarily mean that you will have to stay in jail until your case is settled. Depending on the circumstances of your case, a judge might be willing to reinstate your bond. Your attorney can file a motion with the court requesting that this action is taken.

If you simply chose to skip out on court or refused to meet the conditions of your bond, it is unlikely that the judge will agree to a reinstatement. However, a good reason could potentially sway him or her. For instance, if you can prove that you were unable to attend court due to a medical reason or that you were not aware of the court date, a reinstatement might be possible.

The best course of action to take after you have been notified of your bond being forfeited is to contact your bail bondsman and explain the situation. You also need to talk to your attorney. They can likely work together to start the process of getting the bond reinstated if you act quickly. Contact a business like AMBAIL,LLC to learn more about bail bonds.


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