Sometimes the best news a family can get is that the charges were dropped. Once the relief sets in, the next question is usually about the bail bond. Does the bond just go away? Do you get the premium back? What about collateral? Here is how it generally works.
What Does “Charges Dropped” Mean?
People use “dropped” to describe a few different things. A prosecutor may decide not to file charges, or may dismiss charges that were already filed. Sometimes charges are dismissed and could be refiled later. The defendant’s attorney can explain exactly what happened in a specific case and what it means going forward.
What Happens to the Bond?
When the court case ends because charges are dismissed, the bond is generally no longer needed. The court releases the bond, which is called exonerating the bond. After that, the bail bond company is no longer responsible for guaranteeing the defendant’s appearance, and the cosigner’s responsibility on the bond typically ends too.
Before assuming the bond is released, confirm it. Check the case record through the Kansas District Court Public Access Portal, ask the defendant’s attorney, or call your bondsman.
Do You Get the Premium Back?
In most cases, no. The premium is the fee for the bail bond service. It pays the bondsman for posting the bond and taking on the risk, and that service was already provided when your loved one was released. This is similar to paying for any service that has already been completed. Your bail bond agreement explains the terms, so read it closely and ask questions before you sign.
What About Collateral?
If you put up collateral, you can usually get it back once the bond is exonerated and any balance on the premium is paid. Our post on how to get your collateral back walks through the steps.
What if You Paid Cash Bail Instead?
If the full bond was paid in cash directly to the court, the process for getting that money back is handled through the court, and some fees or costs may be taken out. Ask the court clerk or the defendant’s attorney how refunds work in that case.
What if the Charges Are Refiled?
If charges are dismissed and later refiled, the person may need to go through the process again, which could include a new bond. If this happens, call your bondsman right away.
Steps to Take When Charges Are Dropped
- Get confirmation of the dismissal from the attorney or court record.
- Call your bail bond company to let them know.
- Pay off any remaining premium balance if you are on a payment plan.
- Request the return of any collateral.
- Keep copies of all paperwork for your records.
We Are With You Until the End
Eastep Bail Bonds stays in touch with our clients from the first phone call until the case is closed. When the good news comes, we make wrapping things up simple.
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 24/7 at (316) 391-3723.
