It’s scary to be charged with a crime, especially if you might be facing serious penalties and time behind bars if you’re convicted.
However, you cannot let your fear drive you, especially if that leads to thoughts of jumping bail.
Bail is a privilege you don’t want to abuse
“Bail” is when you are allowed to post a bond, which is a form of financial security that binds your promise to appear in court again later. This can secure your freedom while the criminal justice process works out.
Being out on bail allows you to continue working, attending school and taking care of your family while the case proceeds, minimizing the disruption to your life. It also allows you to more fully participate in your own defense, which can be hard to do when you’re sitting in jail.
“Bail jumping” is any failure to appear in court when you’re expected to be there. If you “intentionally or knowingly” skip a court date, not only will your bail be revoked, but you can be charged with an additional crime. Since the charges of bail jumping are tied directly to the underlying offense for which bail was granted, you can be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony. If you’re charged with felony bail jumping, you could face a $10,000 fine and two to 10 years in prison – even if you’re acquitted of the other charges.
Nobody can guarantee you a positive outcome in your case, but jumping bail will only make your situation worse. Whatever charges you are facing, strong legal guidance can help you get the best possible results.