The decision to post bail for someone should not be taken lightly. Financially, you risk losing the bail amount or collateral if the defendant fails to appear in court. Legally, the defendant's absence can lead to arrest warrants and additional charges, complicating their legal situation further.
Bail Bonds and Credit Scores It's a common misconception that co-signing for a bail bond will ruin your credit. In reality, a bail bond won't affect your credit score in any way. However, bail bond companies may conduct a credit check before allowing you to get a bail bond to make sure that you're a reliable co-signer.
It is possible to revoke a bail bond if your circumstances or the relationship change, or you have concerns about the defendant's behavior. To revoke a bail bond in California, you will need to contact the bail bond agency and inform them of your decision.
Most bond agreements include travel restrictions, confining you to a specific geographic area such as your county or state. These limitations are designed to ensure your availability for court dates. If travel is necessary, you must seek prior approval from the court or your bail bondsman.
The court considers the seriousness of the crime, potential penalty, and criminal history in determining the bond length. If the individual has a history of violating the law, the bond length could extend beyond the usual 90 days.
In California, a bail bondsman typically has six months to find and return the defendant. If the defendant is not found in the timeframe, you will be responsible for paying not only the full amount of the bond, but also any additional expenses and any unpaid premiums.
If convicted, you will face up to 25 years in prison. N.Y. Pen. Law § 130.35.
A domestic violence warrant can be immediately issued after the incident has been reported.
Class C felony: The maximum possible sentence is 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. Class B felony: The maximum possible sentence is 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $30,000. Class A-II felony: The maximum possible sentence is life in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.
Misdemeanor charges can mean jail time and fines while felony domestic violence offenses can result in heavier fines and prison sentences of up to 25 years. Individuals convicted of class A felonies may even face life imprisonment. Another possible penalty is having an order of protection issued against you.