
Out on Bond? What Happens if You Get Rearrested After Bailing
Written on December 1, 2017. Posted In Bail, Blog
Being released on bail offers a chance to remain free while awaiting trial, under the agreement that you’ll follow specific conditions set by the court. This period is an opportunity to demonstrate responsibility and adherence to the law. However, getting arrested again during this time can lead to serious consequences like stricter conditions or loss of bail privileges. Here is what you need to know if you get rearrested after you’ve been bailed out of jail.
What Are the Rules While You’re Out on Bail?
When you’re out on bail, you must show up to every court date. Missing a court appearance is a serious issue. If you fail to appear, the judge can issue a bench warrant, a legal order for your arrest due to failure to appear. If you’re stopped by police, they can arrest you on the spot.
If you know you’ve missed court, contact your bail bond agent, public defender, or attorney immediately. They may be able to help reschedule your hearing and request that the warrant be recalled to avoid arrest.
Court dates aren’t the only requirement. Bail comes with other legally binding conditions. Violating any of these can lead to arrest, additional charges, or losing your bail entirely.
Other Common Bail Conditions to Follow
- Avoiding new criminal activity – Any new charges can result in immediate jail time and revoked bail
- Following curfews or travel restrictions – Breaking these shows the court you’re not following orders.
- Staying away from drugs or alcohol – Especially if your charges are substance-related.
- Checking in with your bail agent or officer – Missing check-ins raises red flags and can lead to a bond revocation.
What Happens If You’re Rearrested While Out on Bail?
Getting arrested again while out on bond comes with serious legal and financial consequences. Here’s what you and your loved ones need to know:
1. Your Original Bail Can Be Revoked and Forfeited
If you’re arrested for a new crime while out on bail, your original bond will likely be revoked. You’ll be taken back into custody, and the bail money or collateral you paid goes back to the bail bonds company—you don’t get it back. Once bail is forfeited, you lose the ability to remain free until the court decides otherwise.
2. You May Be Held in Jail Until a Court Hearing
After a rearrest, you can be held in jail until the court sets a new hearing date. In some cases, the judge may agree to reinstate your original bond once you appear in court. However, if you’ve missed court dates before or if you’re considered a flight risk, the judge can increase your bail or refuse to issue a new one altogether.
3. Bail Might Be Denied or Set Much Higher
If the judge believes you’re not following the law or ignoring court orders, they may deny bail for your new charges. And if bail is granted, the amount will likely be much higher than before to discourage further violations.
4. Tougher Conditions Will Be Imposed
Getting bail again doesn’t mean things go back to normal. Judges often add stricter rules like tighter curfews, no-travel orders, mandatory check-ins, or substance monitoring. Any new violations could land you back in jail instantly.
5. You’ll Face Higher Costs and More Financial Pressure
A new bond means new fees, which can quickly add up, especially if your previous bail was forfeited. This creates an added financial burden for both you and anyone who helped secure your original release.
How a Rearrest Affects Your Original Case
Getting arrested again while out on bail doesn’t just affect your freedom—it can seriously damage your standing in court.
- You could lose plea deals. Prosecutors may cancel previous offers, leaving you to face the full charges without any negotiated options.
- You may face a harsher sentence. Judges often see repeat arrests as a sign of disrespect for the law, which can influence them to issue a tougher sentence.
- Your credibility suffers. If you’re seen as unreliable or unwilling to follow court orders, it may hurt your defense and reduce chances of leniency.
Steps to Take If Re-Arrested While Out on Bail
If you’re arrested again while on bail, taking prompt and appropriate actions is important to address the new circumstances and demonstrate your commitment to resolving the situation responsibly.
- Contact Your Attorney Immediately
Inform your lawyer about the new arrest to receive guidance on legal options and representation. Your attorney can assess the impact on your original case and advise on the best course of action moving forward.
- Notify Your Bail Bondsman
Communicate with your bail agent to discuss the status of your original bond and the possibility of getting a new one. The bail bondsman can provide information on any financial implications and assist in arranging a new bond if applicable.
- Prepare for a Bail Hearing
Be ready for a hearing where the court will decide on your bail status, which may involve stricter conditions. It’s important to work with your attorney to present any mitigating factors that may influence the court’s decision.
Need Help After a Rearrest? Call Free At Last Bail Bonds 24/7
A second arrest can turn your life upside down—but you don’t have to face it alone. Free At Last Bail Bonds is here around the clock to help you or your loved one get released fast and stay on track with all bail conditions.
Our experienced team works quickly, explains your options clearly, and stands by you every step of the way.
Fill out our online form or call (404) 577-2245 now for fast, compassionate help when you need it most.