Skipping bail in Washington State can have severe consequences for both the individual involved and anyone who co-signed their bail bond. Bail allows defendants to be released from custody before their trial date, ensuring they can continue with work, family, and other obligations while preparing their defense. However, the privilege of bail comes with the strict requirement to appear in court as scheduled. Failing to meet this obligation is called “bail jumping” or “failure to appear” (FTA), and it can lead to legal, financial, and personal repercussions. With this in mind, we at Casey’s Bail Bonds would like to share what happens when you skip bail.
Legal Consequences of Skipping Bail
In Washington, missing a court date when out on bail results in an immediate issuance of a bench warrant, authorizing law enforcement to arrest the defendant on sight. If apprehended, the individual will face jail time, often without the opportunity to post bail again, and will have to remain in custody until their court date. Also, bail jumping in Washington is classified as an additional criminal charge. If the original charge was a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor, the bail jumping charge may also be classified as a misdemeanor. However, if the individual was originally charged with a felony, bail jumping can be charged as a Class C felony, potentially adding years of prison time and steep fines to their original sentence.
Financial Repercussions for Defendants & Co-Signers
When someone skips bail, the bail bond company is required to pay the full bail amount to the court. Bail bond companies, however, take steps to recoup this loss by attempting to track down and bring the defendant to court. If they fail to locate the individual, they may turn to bounty hunters, who are legally allowed to pursue and detain bail jumpers across state lines. Washington State permits bounty hunting under specific regulations, and the fees incurred from these services can be passed along to the defendant or their co-signer. The financial burden does not fall solely on the defendant. When a friend or family member co-signs a bail bond, they agree to take on responsibility for the defendant’s court appearances. If the defendant skips bail, the co-signer may be held liable for the full bail amount, as well as any additional costs incurred by the bail bond company in their recovery efforts. This can lead to significant financial strain and even the forfeiture of assets if collateral was used.
Personal & Long-Term Impacts
Beyond the immediate legal and financial consequences, skipping bail can have lasting personal repercussions. Failing to appear in court creates a criminal record that can impact future employment, housing, and educational opportunities. The individual’s reputation in the community may also suffer, especially if law enforcement or bounty hunters actively pursue them. Family members and friends involved in co-signing or otherwise assisting with bail may feel betrayed and face financial hardship, damaging relationships and support networks. Additionally, the court system takes note of defendants who skip bail, making it unlikely they will be granted bail again in the future for any subsequent arrests. Judges may also view bail jumping as an indication of the individual’s lack of respect for the legal system, which can negatively influence sentencing decisions in the original case.
Bail Bond Services in Shelton, Tacoma, Seattle, Belleview, Port Townsend, Port Orchard & Bremerton, WA
Skipping bail in Washington has a ripple effect, impacting not only the defendant but also their loved ones and their future. Legal penalties, financial losses, and strained relationships are all part of the fallout from bail jumping. Remaining accountable and following through with court appearances is crucial for anyone granted bail, as the alternative can result in a much harsher outcome. Call Casey’s Bail Bonds when you or a loved one is in need of posting bail bonds.
