Cosigning on a bail bond is a significant financial and legal commitment. It can help a loved one secure their freedom while awaiting trial, but it also comes with responsibilities that should not be taken lightly. Before agreeing to cosign, it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for. Here are five responsibilities if you cosign on a bail bond.

Ensuring the Defendant Appears in Court

As a cosigner, your primary responsibility is to guarantee that the defendant appears at all scheduled court dates. Failure to do so can result in the bond being forfeited, leaving you financially responsible for the full bail amount. You may need to remind the defendant of their court dates or assist in managing their schedule to ensure compliance.

Covering the Bail Bond Premium

When you cosign, you typically pay a non-refundable premium to the bail bond agency, usually 10% of the total bail amount. Even if the defendant complies with all court requirements, this premium is not returned. Make sure you’re prepared for this upfront cost before cosigning.

Accepting Financial Responsibility for the Full Bail Amount

If the defendant fails to appear in court, you may be held accountable for the entire bail amount. 

You’ll want to be sure you fully trust the defendant to commit to their legal process so that you don’t get stuck with escalating expenses.

Maintaining Communication with the Bail Bond Agency

As a cosigner, you are a point of contact for the bail bond company. You may need to provide updates on the defendant’s whereabouts or help locate them if they become uncooperative. Keeping the agency informed about any changes in the situation can help avoid escalations or legal action.

Ensuring the Defendant Abides by Bail Conditions

Beyond attending court, the defendant may have additional bail conditions, such as avoiding certain locations or abstaining from drugs or alcohol. As a cosigner, you may feel an obligation to help the defendant follow these conditions to prevent their bond from being revoked.

Bail Bonds in Norwalk, CA

If you need a bail bond in Norwalk or Whittier, CA, contact Bliss Bail Bonds at (855) 631-2772. Feel free to give us a call today to ask us any questions about the bail-posting process!