Can I Get Out of a Joint Bond?
Yes, you can get out of a joint bond, but it depends on the terms of the bond agreement, the court’s approval, and the bail bondsman’s policies.
Ways to Get Out of a Joint Bond
- Contact the Bail Bondsman
- If you co-signed a bond and want to be removed, notify the bail bond company immediately.
- Some bondsmen allow co-signers to withdraw under specific conditions.
- Request Bond Revocation
- If you believe the defendant is a flight risk or violating bail conditions, you can ask the court or bondsman to revoke the bond.
- This will likely result in the defendant being re-arrested.
- Find a Replacement Co-Signer
- Some bondsmen may allow you to transfer responsibility to another co-signer who qualifies.
- The new co-signer must meet credit, income, or collateral requirements.
- Pay Off the Bond in Full
- If possible, pay the full bail amount to clear your financial responsibility.
- Once the case is resolved, any refundable bail money goes back to whoever paid it.
- File a Motion with the Court
- If the court set the joint bond, you may need to formally request release from the bond agreement.
- The judge will consider factors like why you want out and if bail conditions are at risk.
Consequences of Leaving a Joint Bond
- If the bond is revoked, the defendant may be re-arrested.
- You may lose any collateral used to secure the bond if the defendant fails to appear in court.
- You won’t get back any non-refundable bail bond fees (typically 10% of the bail amount).
Bottom Line
You can remove yourself from a joint bond by notifying the bail bondsman, revoking the bond, finding a new co-signer, or filing a court request. You may face financial consequences, so it’s best to discuss options with a bondsman or lawyer.
