What Happens If You Skip Bail?

Posted on December 14, 2025
  • Criminal Defense

    • The bail system exists so that someone who has been charged with a crime does not have to spend their time waiting for a criminal trial behind bars. Instead, they pay an amount the court determines is fair, considering the nature of the crime, the threat to the public safety, and the defendant’s flight risk, or releases the defendant on their own recognizance. In exchange, the defendant agrees to appear for all future scheduled court dates. 

    If someone skips bail, they can face several serious consequences, including additional criminal penalties, forfeiture of bail, and incarceration. It’s vital that you understand these significant consequences so that you can do everything within your power to uphold your legal responsibilities and serve as an integral part of your defense.

    An experienced Indianapolis criminal defense attorney from The Criminal Defense Team can review the bail system, your specific bail conditions, and factors specific to your case. Call us today to arrange a free case review.

    Additional Criminal Penalties

    Skipping bail usually means that the defendant did not show up for their criminal trial as they were required to. This can result in you being charged with a failure to appear offense. Missing a required hearing as a criminal defendant is a serious legal matter.

    You can face additional penalties. Furthermore, the judge presiding in your original case may not look favorably on you. This can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case and potential sentencing. 

    Forfeiture of Bail 

    Many people who post bond only pay a percentage of the bail ordered in their case. The bail bond company pays the rest. When the defendant fails to show up for court, they immediately forfeit their bond, so they won’t get back the money they posted directly with the jail.

    Furthermore, they’ll be required to pay back the remaining bond amount to the bail bond company. If the defendant had a co-signer, that person can also be pursued for payment on the bond. 

    Incarceration

    Once you are apprehended for failing to appear, it’s likely that you will be jailed. You may not be released on bail again, or the amount of your bail may be significantly increased. Bounty hunters might pursue you, and they have the legal right to bring you in because you have tried to evade the authority of the court. 

    Contact The Criminal Defense Team for Legal Assistance 

    Rather than skipping bail, you should focus on building a strong defense to the charges against you. With the help of the board-certified criminal trial specialists at The Criminal Defense Team of Baldwin Perry & Wiley PC, you may be able to mount a strong defense to the charges against you and potentially avoid any jail time.

    Call (317) 743-3295 for a free and confidential consultation.