Short answer: When you co-sign (or “indemnify”) a bail bond, you promise the bail company that the defendant will go to every court date. If they don’t, and they aren’t returned to court, you can be responsible for the full bail amount plus the costs of locating them. You also agree to pay the premium or any payment plan balance.
Co-signing is one of the most generous things you can do for someone. It’s also a real financial commitment. Here’s what it means.
What a co-signer agrees to
When you sign the bail bond agreement, you typically agree to:
- Pay the premium. In Louisiana that’s 12% of the bail amount or $120, whichever is greater, plus state-set fees. Or you agree to make the payments on a payment plan.
- Make sure the defendant goes to court. Every date, until the case is closed.
- Cover losses if they don’t. That can mean the full bail amount, plus reasonable costs of finding and returning the defendant.
- Pledge collateral, if required. For example, property or a vehicle title on larger bonds.
- Keep the bail company informed of address or phone changes, and of any concerns.
The biggest risk: a missed court date
If the defendant misses court, the judge can forfeit the bond and issue a warrant. Louisiana law gives the bail company a limited window to bring the defendant back. If that doesn’t happen, the forfeiture becomes final, and the bail company can seek repayment from the co-signer.
In plain terms: co-signing a $10,000 bond can put up to $10,000 of your money at risk, not just the premium.
6 questions to ask before you sign
- How much is the bail, and what’s the total premium and fees?
- Is collateral required? When and how is it returned?
- What’s the payment plan, and what happens if I miss a payment?
- What are the defendant’s court dates and release conditions?
- What check-ins will the defendant need to do?
- What should I do if I think they won’t show up?
A good bail agent will answer all of these clearly, in writing, before you sign. At St Tammany Parish Bail Bonds, we use easy-to-understand contracts and walk every co-signer through them.
How to protect yourself as a co-signer
- Only co-sign for someone you trust to show up to court.
- Keep a copy of the agreement and all receipts.
- Help them remember court dates. Add them to both of your calendars.
- Stay in touch with the defendant and the bail agent.
- Speak up early. If you’re worried they’ll run, call your bail agent right away.
Can I take my name off the bond?
Possibly. In some situations a co-signer can ask the bail company to surrender the defendant back to custody, which ends the co-signer’s future liability. This is a serious step, there may be costs involved, and it depends on the agreement. Talk to your bail agent about your options.
Frequently asked questions
Does co-signing affect my credit? Signing the agreement doesn’t automatically appear on your credit report, but unpaid balances can be sent to collections. Ask how your specific plan works.
Can more than one person co-sign? Yes. Sometimes two co-signers are used to qualify for a bond or avoid collateral.
Do I get my collateral back? Yes, once the case is resolved and all obligations are met.
Thinking about co-signing? Call (504) 821-1111 and we’ll explain everything before you commit. Free, 24/7. ¡Se habla español!
This article is general information, not legal advice. Terms vary by agreement; read yours carefully.
