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What Is Skipping Bail?

If you or someone you know has been arrested and released on bail, skipping bail may seem like an option. But what exactly is skipping bail and what are the consequences? This guide explains the meaning of skipping bail and why it should be avoided.

What Skipping Bail Means

  • Skipping bail refers to when someone who has been arrested and released after posting bail fails to show up for a required court date.
  • When you post bail, you enter a contract with the court promising that the defendant will appear at all upcoming court proceedings. Skipping bail breaks that contract.
  • The court will issue a warrant for the defendant’s arrest if they skip bail. The bail money paid will also be forfeited.

Why People Skip Bail

  • Fear of going to jail – Defendants may skip bail if they believe they will likely be sentenced to jail time and want to avoid incarceration.
  • Fleeing the area – Defendants may try to flee the jurisdiction to avoid prosecution altogether by skipping bail.
  • Money – Defendants who used a bail bondsman may skip bail to avoid repaying the bondsman’s fees. The bondsman is then responsible for repaying the full bail amount.
  • Forgetting – Some defendants may unintentionally miss a court date and skirt bail accidentally. But a warrant will still be issued.

Consequences of Skipping Bail

  • Additional criminal charges – Skipping bail can lead to criminal charges for failure to appear or bail jumping.
  • Warrant and re-arrest – Police will issue a warrant and seek to re-arrest the defendant as soon as possible.
  • Higher bail set – If re-arrested, the court will set a new, higher bail amount, making release before trial less likely.
  • Non-refundable bail money – The original bail payment will not be returned if the defendant skips bail.
  • Increased sentence – Skipping bail may lead prosecutors and judges to pursue more severe criminal sentencing.

Skipping bail has serious legal and financial consequences and should be avoided at all costs. Communicate with your attorney and carefully follow all court instructions to avoid any unintended bail jumping.

Article by:

AA Best Bail Bonds

201 Continental

Dallas, TX 75207

Phone: 214-741-3500

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