Frequently Asked Questions About Bail Bonds

Ventura & Santa Barbara County Bail Agency

At 101 Bail Bonds, we are devoted to helping our clients pursue a positive outcome to their criminal charge by assisting them with the bail process. We believe that having a strong understanding of the process, available options, and likely outcome is imperative to a successful case. For that reason, we have included a number of frequently asked questions on bail bonds below.

Take a moment to read through the questions and corresponding answers to develop a strong understanding of your case. If you have further questions, do not hesitate to schedule a free case evaluation.

• Does 101 Bail Bonds offer bonds for all bail amounts?
• How long is the criminal defendant responsible to the bail agent?
• What is reinstatement?
• Is the premium refundable?
• What does it mean if the bond is forfeited?
• What if I miss a court appearance?

Does 101 Bail Bonds offer bonds for all bail amounts?
At 101 Bail Bonds, we can help you with a variety of bail amounts, regardless of what you or your loved one has been charged with in Santa Barbara. We help individuals who are able to be released on bail who have been charged with a petty theft offense and even more serious crimes. Our goal is to help them financially and legally as they deal with the judicial system.

How long is the criminal defendant responsible to the bail agent?
The bail agent is responsible for the criminal defendant until the court dates. After the case has been disposed of or discharged, the bond will be cancelled. The bail agent will not be held responsible for sentence or program fines that are imposed by the court that result from the defendant pleading or being found guilty.

What is reinstatement?
Reinstatement is a process that occurs when a defendant has failed to appear in court at his or her court date to have their bench warrant removed. If reinstatement is successful, the bail bond will be re-activated with the court. At 101 Bail Bonds, we provide our clients with a reassumption of bail notice to help them avoid paying bail again.

Is the premium refundable?
The premium is not subject to refund. The defendant or his or her co-signer will be fully responsible to the bail service provider for the premium and any additional expenses from the provider. Even if the defendant is found innocent, the case has been dismissed, or the defendant is placed back into custody, the premium cannot be refunded.

What does it mean if the bond is forfeited?
The judge assigned to a particular criminal case can forfeit the bond when the defendant has failed to appear in court. After the bond is forfeited, the bail agent will be directed to apprehend and surrender the defendant to the court. Another action that may take place is for the court to direct the bail agent to pay the total sum of the bond which has been posted on behalf of the defendant.

What if I miss a court appearance?
If you miss your court appearance, you will be issued a failure to appear citation, at which point you will have six months to correct the mistake or reschedule the court date. If you fail to take action, your bail is forfeited and a warrant for your arrest will be issued. Your bail agent will then be responsible for the entire amount.

Bail Bond Answers from 101 Bail Bonds

Our bail bond agents in Santa Barbara are devoted to providing clients with a wide range of services that can help them through their case. With more than 25 years of combined experience, we understand your needs and have solutions to help you. If you have any additional questions regarding bail bonds or the services we provide, please contact us at your earliest convenience. We are here to help each step of the way so do not hesitate to get the assistance you need.