If the person I bailed out jumped bail, can I be arrested for the money owed?

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If the person I bailed out jumped bail, can I be arrested for the money owed?

Asked on April 21, 2015 under Criminal Law, Texas

Answers:

B.H.F., Member, Texas State Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 8 years ago | Contributor

No, the only person who is subject to being arrested is the person who jumped bail.  If you signed any documents promising to insure the person's appearance, however, you may be subject to some civil liability for the amount of the bond.  For example, if you posted a $500 cash bond in your name for his bond, then the state could move to forfeit the bond that you posted.  If the court granted the motion, then you would loose the $500.  To forfeit the bond, the state would have to file what is called a Judgment NISI.  Many people ignore these notices because they see the word "judgment."  This is a not a judgment per se.  It's basically the start of a civil lawsuit, which you would need to answer in order to defend.   So, you do have some exposure, but on the civil side.... not on the criminal side... of the case.


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