When a person is arrested and bail is set, they often rely on a bail bond service to secure their release. Bail bond companies, like Abraham’s Bail Bonds, provide the necessary funds to cover the bail amount, allowing the defendant to go free while awaiting trial. However, an important question arises: what happens if you can’t pay the bail bond company? Specifically, can you go to jail for not paying bail bonds? This article aims to clarify this issue, providing you with the information you need to understand the potential consequences and how to avoid them.
Understanding Bail Bonds
A bail bond is a surety bond provided by a bail bond company to the court, guaranteeing the full bail amount set by the judge. The defendant or their cosigner pays a percentage of the total bail amount (usually 10%) as a fee to the bail bond company. This fee is non-refundable, even after the case is resolved.
The Role of the Bail Bond Company
Abraham’s Bail Bonds, with over 60 years of experience in Oklahoma City, steps in to assist defendants who cannot afford to pay their full bail amount upfront. By providing a bail bond, we ensure that the defendant can be released from jail and return to their daily life while awaiting court proceedings.
Consequences of Not Paying Bail Bond Fees
- Civil Penalties: Failure to pay the agreed-upon bail bond fee typically results in civil penalties rather than criminal charges. This means you won’t be arrested or sent to jail for not paying the bail bond fee itself. However, you will face financial repercussions.
- Collection Actions: The bail bond company may employ collection agencies to recover the owed amount. This can result in persistent calls and letters, negatively affecting your credit score and making it difficult to obtain loans or other forms of credit in the future.
- Loss of Collateral: When securing a bail bond, collateral such as property, vehicles, or other valuable assets might be used. If the bail bond fee isn’t paid, the bail bond company has the right to seize the collateral to recover their losses.
Impact on the Cosigner
If a cosigner was involved in securing the bail bond, they are equally responsible for ensuring the fees are paid. If the defendant defaults on payments, the cosigner will be pursued for the remaining balance. This can lead to strained relationships and significant financial stress for the cosigner, who may also face the same collection actions and potential loss of collateral.
Defendant’s Obligations
While not paying the bail bond fee itself doesn’t lead to jail time, failing to comply with the conditions of the bail bond agreement can. If the defendant fails to appear in court as required, the bail bond is forfeited, and the full bail amount becomes due. In such cases, the bail bond company may employ a bounty hunter to locate the defendant and return them to custody, and the court will issue a warrant for their arrest.
Preventative Measures
The best way to avoid the negative consequences of not paying bail bond fees is to communicate openly with your bail bond agent. Companies like Abraham’s Bail Bonds are often willing to work with clients to create manageable payment plans or adjust terms to ensure compliance and avoid default.
Steps to Take if You Can’t Pay
- Contact Your Bail Bond Agent: As soon as you realize you may have trouble making payments, reach out to your bail bond company. They may be able to offer solutions, such as restructuring your payment plan.
- Explore Financial Assistance: Look for community resources or financial assistance programs that may help you cover the costs of the bail bond.
- Seek Legal Advice: An attorney can provide guidance on how to handle your financial obligations and avoid legal repercussions.
Why Choose Abraham’s Bail Bonds?
At Abraham’s Bail Bonds, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the bail bond process with compassion and professionalism. If you or a loved one needs assistance with bail in Oklahoma City, contact us today at (214) 533-0716. Our experienced team is here to provide the support and solutions you need to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Trust Abraham’s Bail Bonds to be your partner in securing freedom and peace of mind.