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Question
My question is if there is a person who co-signs for a person in a bail situation, what are they responsible for exactly?
Mary,
Remember there are fifty states and each one MIGHT have its own law concerning bail. I will tell you what happens in MY state.
I get arrested and the bond is $5000.00. You post my bail and I am realeased from jail but then fail to appear in court. The court keeps your $5000.00 because I failed to appear in court. So you lose the $5000.
I get arrested and the bond is $250,000.00. You sign over your house as bail. I fail to appear in court. The court now owns your house and you lose your house.
There is no bail but you sign to guarantee that I will appear in court. I fail to appear in court. The judge then issues a warrant for your arrest for contempt of court because I didn't appear in court and you guaranteed it so you go to jail until I show up.
Now this does not necessarily apply to YOUR state but it might be pretty close.
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Answers by Expert:
Jack Toomey
Expertise
Please do not ask me about potential jail sentences that you, your friends, or family might receive in court. There is no way for me to know that. Only a judge could answer a question like that. I am also NOT a probation officer or parole officer so I cannot answer questions that relate to parole or probation. Also please keep in mind that every state has different laws. If you are planning to ask a question about a specific law or criminal charge that pertains to your state only it could be difficult to answer. I also cannot give you legal advice on what to do or what not to do in court. Retired police officer with 26 years experience. Worked in the patrol division as well as over 14 years in the detective bureau. Investigated a wide range of crime such as murder, rape, robbery, theft, fraud, missing persons, and other very sensitive crimes. I am available to answer your questions about criminal law and especially as it applies to police work. I taught at the police academy for several years and am especially knowledgeable about search and seizure. Any question about criminal law is welcome! Please don't ask me to do your homework or ask me questions that obviously come from your teachers or professors. I also do not do online interviews or surveys. Young people need to gain face to face interviewing skills. Local police officers usually are very agreeable to assist in these assignments.
Experience
I am a retired police officer with 26 years experience. I investigated almost every type of crime including murder, rape, theft, missing persons, fraud, and domestic abuse. I am very knowledgeable about search and seizure and taught at the police academy for several years on a variety of subjects. I can answer questions that a lot of attorneys cannot since they do not have "street experience".
Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Science degree in Criminolgy from the University of Maryland.
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