Bail bonds are designed to make the process of posting bail as accessible as possible. This is because they can lower the total amount you’ll have to spend by up to 90%. 

However, this does not free you from all financial responsibilities. You’ll still have to pay the service fee (10% of the amount set by the judge) to the relevant agencies. 

While some agencies require this money upfront, many allow for flexible payment plans to be put in place. 

This is where non-payment can begin to lead to issues.

Consequences of Non-Payment: Jail Time?

There are no direct legal consequences for failing to pay your bail bond. However, this does not mean that failing to pay will not affect your life moving forward.

Failing to pay your bail bond agent could mean that you (or the person who signed the contract on your behalf) will face numerous financial ramifications. 

For example, after a certain time period has passed, the bail bond agency would be well within their rights to reach out to bailiffs. Though this will likely be forewarned when the agency reaches out to incentivize payments, when a bailiff arrives at your property they can seize assets to the value of the money the agency is owed. This can include assets such as your home, car and other belongings. Depending on the terms of the agreement, they may also be able to add interest, meaning you will end up spending far more than is necessary.

They may also be able to file a civil lawsuit against you.

The Impact of Unpaid Bail on Your Freedom

While non-payment cannot lead to jail time, it may have a knock-on effect on your freedom further down the line. This is because, should you get arrested again, bail bond agencies are unlikely to be willing to work alongside you. Alternatively, they may require co-signers or collateral as well as upfront payments.

Non-Payment of Bail Bonds: Know the Risks

In short, there are many risks tied to the non-payment of bail, even if you feel as though the reasoning behind non-payment is justified.

As such, it is important that you take preventative action to reduce the chances of you landing yourself in this situation to begin with. For example, you should read the terms and conditions of your repayment plan carefully, ensuring that the payment schedule is one that you can adhere to. 

You should also be as transparent and honest as possible when liaising with your bond agent before signing the contract. This way, they have a deeper understanding of your financial situation and can take this into account when putting together your payment plan.

Finally, you should also reach out to them directly should you feel as though you are unable to uphold your end of the bargain. They may be able to adjust your payment plan accordingly, as opposed to taking action that could put you in an even worse situation moving forward.