All American defendants are protected by the Eight Amendment of the U.S Constitution, whereas “excessive bail shall not be required.” Despite that, not all offenders have the financial capability to pay the full bail amount. Luckily, bail bonds Brighton agencies can post the bail on behalf of the defendant with a minimal premium fee.
Unfortunately, most defendants still have a hard time posting bail even with the help of the bail bonds Brighton agency, and that’s when a co-signer comes in.
What is a Co-signer or Indemnitor?
Indemnitors are usually a family member, loved one, or a friend who agrees to co-sign bail bonds on behalf of the offender. He will provide assurances to meet the stipulated financial responsibility in the bail bond contract.
Aside from making sure that the defendant will attend court proceedings, here are some other things you need to keep in mind when you co-sign bail bonds in Brighton Colorado.
You will need to meet specific requirements to be a co-signer.
As a co-signer, you need to pass some qualifications such as proof of employment, residency, financial capability, and others. Law in each state may vary regarding the co-signer’s qualifications but being responsible for holding up with the bail bond contract is highly required.
The bail bond company may require you to offer collateral.
Bail bond contracts often require collateral that needs to be surrendered. And as a co-signer, you need to produce collateral on behalf of the defendant before signing a contract. Keep in mind that once the offender violates the bail conditions, the collateral will be seized to cover for the payment of bail.
The co-signer will make sure that the defendant attends all court proceedings.
The co-signer’s primary responsibility is to assure the court and the bail bond agency that the offender will adhere to bail conditions set by the court until the completion of the case. Otherwise, you will be held responsible for the bail amount and other additional fees.
You can request stipulations before co-signing to the contract.
By being a co-signer, you agree to accept a huge responsibility to the court and the bail bond agency. But you can protect yourself from legal implications by adding precautions and request before signing the bail bonds in Brighton Colorado. For instance, you can require the offender to undergo a drug and alcohol rehabilitation program or mental health evaluation. You can also stipulate that the bond will be withdrawn if the offender continues to commit illegal activities. You also need to surrender the defendant to the authorities if you know that he is a flight risk.
The co-signer can’t quickly get out of the bail bond contract.
As with other contracts, you are bound to honor the agreement. In this case, you are financially responsible if the defendant violates the bail conditions. And once you sign it, there is no turning back even if it’s hurting you financially. The only moment you will be free from financial duties is once the case is closed and the defendant has fulfilled all the required court responsibilities and obligations.