How do I get out of a bond I signed for someone...?

Criminal Law Topics
1

So I did a bond for someone, but now I’m getting a court date for a bond forfeiture and my house is on the line :grimacing:. I’m freaking out and have no clue how to remove myself from this mess. Has anyone dealt with this before? Any tips on how to get out of being a surety?

2

Oof, that sounds stressful. From what I know, you can try surrendering the defendant to the court to relieve yourself from the bond. Maybe look into filing a motion to be released too. Have you tried talking to a lawyer yet?

3

@Wade
Yeah, I’m planning to reach out to one soon. I just needed to get some advice first to know what I’m up against. Thanks for the suggestion .

4

@Wade
Filing a motion to be released sounds like the safest bet. You just gotta show valid reasons why you want out.

5

Wait, what’s bond forfeiture exactly? :sweat_smile:

6

Ren said:
Wait, what’s bond forfeiture exactly? :sweat_smile:

It’s when the person you signed for doesn’t show up in court, and you risk losing your collateral—like your house. It’s pretty serious.

7

Ren said:
Wait, what’s bond forfeiture exactly? :sweat_smile:

Oh wow, didn’t know that! That’s intense.

8

If you do nothing, they might seize your property. Definitely act fast and get some legal advice!

9

Lennon said:
If you do nothing, they might seize your property. Definitely act fast and get some legal advice!

Yeah, I’m definitely not just gonna sit around. Trying to get things moving ASAP.

10

You might also wanna negotiate with the bondsman or the court. Sometimes they can help work out a solution.

11

Will said:
You might also wanna negotiate with the bondsman or the court. Sometimes they can help work out a solution.

Does that really work though? I thought once it’s forfeited, it’s pretty much over.

12

Will said:
You might also wanna negotiate with the bondsman or the court. Sometimes they can help work out a solution.

Depends on the situation, I guess. Worth trying if you’ve got good reasons.

13

You could also try seeking remission of the bond, which might help you recover the amount or collateral even after forfeiture has started. It’s a long shot but might be worth exploring.

14

Oli said:
You could also try seeking remission of the bond, which might help you recover the amount or collateral even after forfeiture has started. It’s a long shot but might be worth exploring.

Didn’t even know that was a thing! I’ll look into it. Thanks .