Cosigning a Bail Bond? What You Need to Know
f a family member, loved one or friend calls to tell you they have been arrested, they may also ask you to post bond on their behalf. No one wants a loved one to sit in jail, so you may be inclined to help them to get out. However, if you have never cosigned a bail bond before, you may not know what happens or exactly what you are signing up for. Here is what you need to know about being a cosigner for a bail bond.
What is a Bail Bond Cosigner?
A bail bond cosigner is someone who takes on the financial responsibility of your loved one’s bail if they do not make their payments or skip out on their bail. Becoming a cosigner is a huge deal and should only be done for someone you fully know and trust because you can be left with a huge liability if they do not show up to court or run out of town.
What Happens After You Cosign a Bail Bond?
When you are cosigning a loved one’s bail, you will have to meet with a bonding company and fill out a number of forms. These are basic forms that state where you live, where you work and how you know the defendant. You will also sign forms stating that you are financially responsible if the person you are cosigning for does not pay any remaining bail bond payments, skips out on bail or does not show up for scheduled court dates. Once all of these forms are in order, and the initial payment is made, and the jail processes their release your loved one will be released from jail.
From that point forward, you have a vested interest in ensuring your loved one makes it to court dates and follows through on everything they are required to do as required as part of their release terms. It is also important you stay in contact with them and know where they are living and working.
Can You Get Out of Being a Cosigner After You’ve Agreed to It?
If the person you cosigned a bond for begins to engage in activity that is dangerous to you or them, or you have reason to believe they may be trying to flee and run from their charges, you can contact the bonding company. They may be able to revoke bond and take your loved one back into custody, which diminishes your liability. You will still be responsible for any outstanding money owed to the bonding company, and they may charge a fee for taking your loved one into custody if they do not go willingly.
When you cosign a bail bond, you help your loved one get out of jail. At Free at Last Bail Bonds, we are fully committed to reuniting families. If you or a loved one needs our services, we are here for you 24 hours a day at 470-410-3409.