If you put up collateral to help someone get out of jail, you are probably wondering when you will get it back. The short answer: collateral is usually returned after the court case is finished and the bond is released. Here is how that process works, and what you can do to make it smooth.
What Is Bail Bond Collateral?
Collateral is something of value that secures a bail bond. It gives the bail bond company protection in case the defendant does not show up to court. Common types of collateral include:
- Vehicle titles
- Real estate or property
- Cash deposits
- Other valuable items, depending on the company
Not every bond needs collateral. Smaller bonds often do not. Larger bonds, or cases where the risk is higher, may require it. Your bondsman should tell you up front if collateral is needed.
When Is Collateral Returned?
Collateral is generally returned once the bond is exonerated. That is a fancy word that means the court has released the bond because the case no longer needs it. This usually happens when:
- The charges are dismissed
- The defendant is found not guilty
- The defendant is sentenced
- The case otherwise wraps up
It is important to know that collateral is not returned just because the defendant went to a few court dates. The bond stays active until the case is resolved, so the collateral stays in place too.
Steps to Get Your Collateral Back
- Confirm the case is closed. You can check the status of a Kansas case online through the Kansas District Court Public Access Portal, or ask the defendant’s attorney.
- Get proof the bond was exonerated. The court record will usually show the disposition. Your bondsman may be able to confirm it directly.
- Contact your bail bond company. Let them know the case is finished and ask what they need from you.
- Make sure the premium is paid in full. If you are on a payment plan, any remaining balance usually needs to be settled before collateral is released.
- Bring your ID and paperwork. Have your receipt and a copy of your collateral agreement handy.
What Can Delay Getting Collateral Back?
A few things can slow things down:
- The court has not yet updated the case record
- There is still a balance owed on the premium
- The defendant missed court at some point and there are costs tied to that
- The collateral paperwork, like a title, needs to be signed back over
Most of these can be cleared up with a phone call. Stay in touch with your bondsman and you will usually get an answer quickly.
What if the Defendant Skipped Court?
If the defendant missed court and did not return, the bail bond company may be able to use the collateral to cover the bond and related costs, depending on your signed agreement. This is exactly why it matters to choose carefully who you cosign for, and to call your bondsman right away if a court date is missed. Quick action often keeps a missed date from turning into a forfeited bond.
Keep Good Records From Day One
The easiest collateral returns happen when the cosigner kept organized records. Save:
- Your signed bail bond agreement
- The collateral receipt or agreement
- Every payment receipt
- A list of court dates
Questions About Your Collateral?
Eastep Bail Bonds believes in clear answers. We explain collateral before you ever sign, and we make returning it simple once the case is over. If you have a question about a bond with us, just call.
Eastep Bail Bonds is a bail bond company. We are not attorneys and we do not give legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact Warrior Lawyers.
Call Eastep Bail Bonds any time at (316) 391-3723.
