What happens if the person bailed out is late for court? Is the bond forfeited?
Technically, the answer is yes, the bond is forfeited. Oftentimes the court will issue a bench warrant as they may consider the defendant’s failure to appear as a willful act. Make sure, If you know the person is going to be late or can’t find the right courtroom, to contact either your bail company to handle the situation by reassuming the bond, or by contacting the court clerk in any courtroom. They will direct you to your appropriate court. Always check in with the bailiff to let them know you are late. It’s better to be late than to not show at all.
