When a friend, family member, or loved one contacts you in need of help - it's only natural to step up where possible.
For example, if they have been arrested and need to post bail, you may offer to be their cosigner. This means that you are taking on the financial responsibility of the bail bond, whether you’re paying outright or working with a bail bonds company.
However, many of those who agree to become a cosigner later worry about whether or not they have made the right decision. For example, you may be facing financial pressures of your own that leave room for worry about whether or not you can afford the cost of the bail bond itself. Alternatively, you may begin to believe that the defendant will not meet the terms of their bail or that they are a flight risk.
In these scenarios, you may begin to question whether or not you can revoke bail if you post it for someone.
Revoking Bail: Can You Revoke It?
When you become a cosigner or indemnitor, you are agreeing to be held financially accountable for the bail bond. This means that if the defendant does not meet the terms of their bail, you are financially liable for the full amount of the bail bond - which can easily stretch into thousands of dollars. As such, it's only natural to wonder whether or not you can revoke this; especially if:
- Your relationship with the defendant has changed
- You are encountering financial difficulties of your own
- You think the defendant is likely to skip bail/fail to adhere to the terms outlined by the judge or court.
Fortunately, there are ways to revoke bail, though you must follow a very specific process. You cannot simply declare that you no longer wish to be an indemnitor, or to support the defendant unilaterally.
Who Can Revoke A Bail Bond?
As a cosigner, you can revoke a bail bond, though the process can quickly get complicated. To begin with, you should contact the bail bonds agency, to let them know about your desire to revoke your status as a cosigner. They will then be able to kickstart the formal process of revoking the bail bond, which involves sharing this information with the courts, presiding judges, and the defendant’s attorneys.
The courts also have the authority to revoke bail bonds, though the process of doing so is much more straightforward for these parties. They may decide to revoke bail for the defendant based on a variety of scenarios. For example, it could be that they have failed to appear at a court appearance, or that they have not been following the terms of their bail. Once located, the defendant will be returned to jail until their court date.
Understanding Revoked Bail: What Does it Mean?
When bail is revoked, this means that the defendant will return to jail. If bail was revoked by the courts, such as the judge presiding over the case, it's highly unlikely that they will be given the chance to post bail again. This means that they will remain in custody until their trial date arrives.
However, if the decision to revoke bail was made by the cosigner, and approved by the relevant bodies, the defendant may be given the opportunity to find an alternative indemnitor.
Revoke Bond and Get Your Money Back: Is it Possible?
If you have decided to revoke bail after posting it on behalf of another person, you may be wondering about whether or not you can get your money back. The answer depends on the specific circumstances you find yourself in.
For example, the fees claimed by bail bondsmen during the initial bailing-out process are often non-refundable. This means that it is unlikely that this money will be returned to your bank account.
Revoking Bail Bonds: Can a Bondsman Do It?
Typically, the decision to revoke a bond can only be made by those working within the court system itself - though the steps outlined above can help a cosigner to project themselves, and lower their financial burden/risk. As such, while a bondsman does not have the authority to revoke bail, they can support a cosigner throughout this process.
Final Thoughts.
Whether you are trying to get your name removed from someone's bail bond, or would like to revoke bail after posting it on behalf of another, it's important to know that there are systems in place to support you during this time.
While you may wish to offer your help and support to your friend/loved one, there are occasions when continuing to act as their cosigner is simply ot advisable. For example, one such reason could be that they are failing to meet the terms and conditions of their bail, or acting in a way that is cause for concern.
Typically, it's advised that you have a discussion with the defendant ahead of time relating to your decision. This could deter any negative behavior on their behalf, meaning that they’re more likely to adhere to the terms of their bail. This should give you a sense of security, that means you may not feel the need to revoke bail.
However, it is also important that you protect your own best interests as much as possible. If you find yourself in a scenario where revoking bail seems like a necessity, be sure to reach out to a bail bondsman directly, such as a member of the team at 24 Online Bail Bonds. We’ll be able to discuss the process with you in detail, helping you to put your best foot forward during this time.
With years of experience within the court system, we’re on hand to offer non-judgemental, impartial advice, relating not only to revoked bail, but any other bail-related matters, too. Please do not hesitate to get in touch today to find out more!