Attending court sessions while on bail demonstrates that you are a law-abiding citizen. The court may revoke a bond if you do not attend your court sessions. Bail bonds exist to give you freedom so you can fulfill your obligations before trial. The following may happen if you do not attend the court after posting the bail.
Impact on Case Outcome
Some prosecutors may interpret failure to attend court hearings as an attempt to disregard legal procedure. This perception can shape how they work on the case in the future and can change their decision-making processes. As a result, the defendant may forfeit the ability to plead to lesser charges. The prosecution may try to have the defendants receive longer terms when they have shown a clear disposition.
Arrest Warrant Issued
When an accused person does not show up in court, the judge will more often than not issue another warrant of arrest. This warrant allows law enforcement agents to apprehend the defendant again. The effect of an arrest warrant may impact the defendant’s employment opportunities or the possibility of international travel.
The warrant appears on a background check and may affect your reputation in court. Law enforcement agencies will also share warrant information with other city and state police departments, increasing the likelihood of apprehension. This means that even if the defendant manages to move to another state, they remain at risk of being arrested.
Bail Forfeiture
If a defendant fails to appear in court, the system deducts the bail deposited. In cases where a bail bond was used, the bondsman becomes liable to pay the court. Penalties for bail bonds forfeiture can be severe in terms of monetary loss.
Additional Criminal Charges
Failing to appear in court is often its own criminal offense. Some jurisdictions may consider failing to present yourself in court a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the situation. These new charges can be added to the defendant’s existing case, compounding their legal troubles.
Skipping court for a felony charge may result in felony failure to appear. These additional charges can result in increased penalties, including fines and potential jail time, separate from any consequences of the original charges. They also have a negative consequence on the defendant’s criminal record, affecting legal procedures.
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Revocation of Bail
If the defendant does not show up, the court will cancel their bail. This implies that even if the defendant is subsequently arrested or voluntarily submits to arrest, they will not be allowed bail again. The judge may also bring them into custody until their trial or hearing is complete. Bail revocation greatly hinders the defendant in their preparation for the matter in court. This means that being held in custody can complicate the process of meeting with attorneys and collecting evidence. This can affect the determination of their case.
Get Bail Bonds
Bail bonds from a reliable company provide financial services during emergencies. A good and reliable bail bond company can offer you legal assistance and advice on how to go about the case you are facing. For more information, call a bondsman and be free from detention.
