Bail bond co-signers usually sign a promissory note, obliging them to pay the bond amount if the defendant fails to appear in court. Family members or friends often need to co-sign bail bonds to help someone to get out of jail. Here are considerations to keep in mind for a bail bond co-signer.
Good Credit and Job History
When defendants fail to adhere to bail bond agreements, a co-signer assumes responsibility for the payment. Good credit history typically assures the court that the co-signer will respect the deal. Co-signers also need to demonstrate that they can make payments if the defendant fails on his or her part. In addition, someone with a steady job for many years is perceived as more likely to uphold their end of the bargain.
Providing Collateral
Depending on the nature of the charges or bail amount, co-signers may have to provide collateral besides their signature on the bond. Co-signers assume the court’s risk to let the accused remain free while awaiting trial. Proper insurance assures the court that someone can cover the bail amount if a defendant fails to show up. Different state laws determine when the court returns collateral once the trial ends. A co-signer’s responsibility remains valid until the court case is resolved, and bail bond co-signers should prepare to ensure that the defendant appears for all court dates until a verdict is reached.
Application Requirements
Once a co-signer agrees to sign the bail bond, they’ll need to provide a valid driver’s license or identification card. Proof of employment, including two or more consecutive pay-stubs, demonstrates the co-signer’s steady job history. These documents can be submitted either in electronic or paper format. If a co-signer provides collateral, they may need to include proof of ownership to complete the bail bonds process. Depending on the agreed form of payment for the bail bond premium, the co-signer should bring cash or their credit card.
Withdrawing the Bond
A co-signer can request the bondsman to withdraw the bond if they feel that the defendant will fail to appear in court. In such cases, the bondsman returns the accused to jail until they find a new co-signer of equal caliber. The co-signer can inform the bail bond company about the whereabouts of the accused if they flee or fail to attend court sessions.
The licensed agents at A-Affordable Bail Bonds can help you decide whether to act as a co-signer. We help clients throughout Washington release their loved ones from jail and are available on call 24/7. Call us at 360-699-3100 to reach a live agent.
