3 Reasons You Should Never Skip Out On Bail
The urge to miss your court date and leave so you don't go back to jail is strong after being released on bail bonds. However, there are a lot of negative consequences from skipping out on bail, including these common ones below.
You Will Get Caught
The police and the bail bonds company will look for you if you skip out on bail. Money is on the line for the bail bond services provider, too. The amount they posted for your bail is fortified if you're not brought back in.
While the police may have limited resources in your area, the bail bonds company will have resources dedicated to finding people who didn't show up to court. It's very likely they will find you. You'll end up facing the consequences of your original charges and your attempt to leave town.
Even if no one would ever find you, life is not easy when you're constantly having to look over your shoulder, and keep moving from place to place. Basic life things like holding down a job or renting an apartment will become very difficult, if not impossible, to do.
You Will Lose Any Bond Collateral
When you were released on bail, you either put up property — known as collateral — or cash to secure it. If you miss your court date, you will lose that money or property.
The same forfeiture applies even if a loved one put up collateral for you. This means your loved one's house, car or other pledged property will be taken away.
Your Cosigner Will Be Held Responsible
Many people have a cosigner when they are released from jail on bail. The cosigner on your bail agreed to take on the financial responsibility involved if you don't show up for your court date.
When a bail bonds company has to search for you, your cosigner will be left with the bill from the company for the costs involved in your search.
On top of all of these negative consequences of skipping out on bail, missing your court date will harm your family, too. The police, the bonds company, and other parties in the case may use surveillance on your family to find you. Your family members will worry about you and what will happen to you. Any money and property they put up for your bail will be lost.
No one wants to go to court on a criminal charge, but if you try to put it off, it will only make matters worse. When you have been arrested and posted bail for your release, it's always wise to make all of your court dates.
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