The nature of the offense notwithstanding, if you are indicted and charged with a crime, you are in serious trouble. Even if the charge does not lead to a conviction, you might still end up with a stained reputation. This underpins the importance of coming up with an aggressive defense strategy when charged with a crime.
One of the rights suspects may have when charged with a crime is the right to be released on bail. Of course, this depends on the specifics of the charges you are facing as well as your ability to raise the bail amount. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for some people to jump bail.
What exactly is jumping bail?
Basically, a defendant is deemed to have jumped bail when they fail to appear in court for their trial. Regardless of your reasons for missing your court dates, it is important to understand that jumping bail is a serious offense with severe consequences.
Here are two things that can happen when you jump bail.
Your bail will be revoked
Failing to show up in court will most often lead to the revocation of your bail. When this happens, the judge will issue an arrest warrant against you. And this means that you may end up spending the rest of your trial period in jail.
You will forfeit your bail money
Jumping bail might also result in the forfeiture of your bail money or any collateral that you or your family deposited with the court. And if your bail was paid by a third party like the bail bond company, then this means that you will have a debt to contend with.
Being released on bail can ensure that you carry on with your life while awaiting the outcome of your case. Find out how you can safeguard your rights and interests while on bail.