Being released on bail from a Tennessee jail is a conditional privilege, not a guarantee. At Advanced Bail Bonding, we work hard to secure your quick jail release, giving you the freedom to prepare your defense and get back to your life. However, this freedom comes with a critical obligation: you must appear at all scheduled court dates. When a defendant fails to appear, it’s known as "skipping bail," and the consequences are immediate and severe. We want our clients to understand the risks, which is why we've detailed the serious outcomes you face if you violate the terms of your release.
The Serious Price of Freedom: What Happens If You Skip Bail?
The Serious Price of Freedom: What Happens If You Skip Bail?
An Immediate Bench Warrant is Issued
If a defendant fails to show up for any scheduled court appearance, the very first consequence is that the judge will issue an immediate bench warrant for their arrest. This warrant authorizes law enforcement to find and apprehend the person at any time, in any location. For clients seeking quick jail release, this means an abrupt end to your temporary freedom and a return to custody, often without the option of being released on bail again.
The Full Bail Amount is Forfeited
Skipping a court date leads directly to the financial penalty of bail forfeiture. If you used a bail bonding company like ours, the court demands the full, original bail amounts by crime in Tennessee from us. We must then take action to recover that entire amount from the defendant or the co-signer who secured the bond. The non-refundable premium you paid for the bond is lost, and you become liable for the full, significant sum.
New Criminal Charges for Failure to Appear
Beyond the original charges you face, failing to appear in court constitutes a new, separate criminal offense. In Tennessee, a “Failure to Appear” charge carries its own potential penalties, which can include additional fines and further jail time. This consequence alone proves that attempting to evade your court date is never the right move, as it only serves to double your legal trouble and worsen your overall situation dramatically.
Harsher Sentencing
A history of skipping bail severely damages your credibility with the court and prosecutors. Judges see it as a sign of unreliability and an unwillingness to take the legal process seriously, making it almost impossible to secure bail in Tennessee in the future. Furthermore, this lack of trust can lead to much harsher sentencing on your original charges, as the judge may be less inclined to offer leniency, probation, or a favorable plea deal.
Advanced Bail Bonding is a trusted bail bonding company dedicated to providing efficient and compassionate assistance throughout Tennessee. We secure your release quickly, but our commitment includes ensuring you understand your obligations to the court. Skipping bail jeopardizes your freedom, finances, and future. We are here 24/7 to answer your questions about court dates, bail amounts, or the release process. If you need support or have questions about how to manage your release responsibly, contact us right away.