How Do I Reinstate My Bail Bond?

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Question:   A warrant was issued for my arrest in San Diego County for a failure to appear. When I flew from the Bay Area to San Diego and met with the intern that was handling my case, I was very pleased to learn that the case was dismissed.  Unfortunately, now I have a bail recovery agent attempting to locate me for my arrest.  It is disappointing to find out this case was never dismissed, however I am willing to take care of this matter as soon as possible.

If I contact the bail bondsman, will they reinstate the bond so that I am not arrested?  I do not have a criminal history, and I even have a clean driving record.  I am the only signer on the bail bond contract, I own property and have good credit.  I would a prefer a lien against my condo rather than being chased by a fugitive recovery agent. 

Answer:   Your case is very common and something we see regularly.  The bondsman is likely to reinstate the bond, especially if the circumstances are as clean as indicated. The first thing you will want to do is to contact the bail bondsman and ask for a reinstatement.  There is often a nominal charge for this.

If the bondsman is unwilling or is unable to reinstate the bond, you will want to call another bondsman.   In this case you will tell that bail bonds company that you want to turn yourself in on a warrant and that you would like to arrange for bail. Since you will be needing a new bond, you will have to pay again.  However, if you want to avoid being picked up by the recovery agent, this may be your best option.  You will want to be up-front and honest about the situation when you contact the bondsman. He will figure it out and you will save yourself time and headache by giving a complete account of what has happened.

The only other option is to contact the clerk of the court and get back on the schedule, although you will still need a bail bond when you appear if you want to be released awaiting a new date.

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