🚨 10 Things You Should Never Do While Out on Bail
Getting out on bail gives you a second chance — a chance to stay home, keep working, and prepare your defense. But don’t mistake freedom for a free pass. One wrong move could land you back behind bars and leave your co-signer (or loved one) on the hook.
Here are 10 things you should absolutely avoid while out on bond:
1. 📅 Miss a Court Date
This is rule number one. Missing even a single hearing can lead to a bench warrant, bond forfeiture, and additional charges. Mark your calendar and show up early.
2. 🧳 Travel Without Permission
Most bail agreements restrict travel. Leaving the state or country without written approval from the court or your bondsman can violate your bond — even for something like a family emergency or work trip.
3. 🚓 Get Arrested Again
Sounds obvious, but it happens. Any new arrest — even for something minor — can void your current bond and complicate everything. Stay out of risky situations.
4. 📝 Break Any Release Conditions
You may be ordered to avoid certain people, places, or substances. Don’t assume the court isn’t watching. Violating any condition can send you straight back to jail.
5. 🤥 Lie to Your Bondsman
Your bondsman is helping you stay free. Hiding your location, lying about your job, or avoiding communication can make you look like a flight risk — and they can pull your bond.
6. 📵 Ignore Calls or Messages
If your bondsman, lawyer, or the court is trying to reach you — respond quickly. Radio silence raises red flags and may lead to a warrant.
7. 🚫 Use Drugs or Alcohol (If Prohibited)
If your charges involve drugs, DUI, or violence, you may be ordered to stay sober. Random tests can happen at any time. If you fail one, you’re looking at revocation.
8. 📍 Miss Check-Ins
Some people on bond must check in weekly or monthly with the bondsman or court. Skipping these shows unreliability — and your bond could be surrendered.
9. 🏡 Forget to Update Your Contact Info
Moved? New phone number? Tell your bondsman. If they can’t reach you, they may assume you’re skipping town — and act fast to bring you in.
10. 😬 Hang Around the Wrong Crowd
Staying in contact with co-defendants or known criminals (even if you're not doing anything illegal) can violate your bond conditions and make you look guilty by association.
✅ Stay Out, Stay Smart
Getting bailed out is a privilege, not a right. Follow the rules, keep your court dates, and respect your bondsman. One mistake can cost you your freedom — and someone else’s money.
📞 Need Help With Bail?
Whether it’s your first time or you're helping someone else, we’re here to walk you through it — no judgment, no pressure.
👉 The Bail Barn
📍 45 E Monterey Way #100i, Phoenix, AZ 85012
📞 Call Text: 623-428-2276
🌐 Website: thebailbarn.com
📲 Available 24/7
