Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

Yes, you can remove yourself from a bail bond if you are the cosigner, but it must be done the right way and before the defendant breaks any bond conditions. When you sign a bail bond, you agree to take financial responsibility for the defendant, meaning if they miss court or violate their release terms, you may owe the full bond amount. If you lose confidence in the defendant’s compliance or wish to avoid further risk, you can request to withdraw from the bond through the bail bondsman and the local court.

Understanding The Role Of A Cosigner

When someone is arrested and cannot pay bail, a bail bondsman may require a cosigner. The cosigner guarantees that the defendant will attend all court hearings and follow every condition of release. In return, the cosigner is responsible for paying fees and any costs if the defendant fails to appear in court.

• The cosigner ensures the defendant attends all court dates
• Responsible for the bail bond fee (usually 10% of the total bail)
• Financially liable if the bond is forfeited
• They have the right to revoke their obligation under certain conditions

How To Remove Yourself From The Bond

To remove yourself from a bail bond, you must act before any violations occur. The process starts by contacting the bail bondsman and requesting to be released from your financial obligation. The bondsman will usually file a formal notice with the court to withdraw the bond or surrender the defendant back into custody.

• Contact the bail bondsman directly and request removal
• Explain why you want to end your responsibility (risk, mistrust, or violation concerns)
• The bondsman may require the defendant to return to jail
• Once the bond is revoked, you are no longer financially responsible

When You Can Remove Yourself

Timing is critical. You can only remove yourself before the defendant violates court orders or fails to appear. If the bond is already forfeited, you may not be released from liability until the defendant is back in custody or the bond is reinstated.

• Before court violations occur, you can cancel the bond safely
• After violations or missed hearings, you may be responsible for full bond costs
• Once the defendant is re-arrested or the case ends, your obligation ends automatically

What Happens After Removal

After you request removal, the bail bondsman can “surrender” the bond. This means they revoke the defendant’s release and notify law enforcement. The defendant will then be taken back into custody until the court decides on new bail terms or release options. Once that happens, your name and financial liability are officially removed from the bond contract.

• The bondsman notifies the court and revokes the bond
• The defendant returns to custody or posts a new bond
• Your financial obligation ends when the bond is canceled

When You Cannot Remove Yourself

If the defendant has already missed a court appearance or broken release conditions, you may not be able to withdraw from the bond immediately. At that point, the bond may already be forfeited, and you remain liable until the bondsman or law enforcement locates the defendant.

• Bond has already been forfeited due to a missed court date
• Defendant in hiding or unable to be located
• Legal restrictions prevent immediate cancellation

Protecting Yourself As A Cosigner

Before signing any bail bond, review all terms carefully. Cosigning is a serious legal and financial commitment. Always ask the bail agent what happens if you wish to withdraw later and ensure all agreements are in writing. Keeping open communication with both the bondsman and the defendant helps prevent misunderstandings.

• Read the contract before signing
• Confirm your right to cancel in writing
• Monitor the defendant’s court attendance
• Keep all receipts and records of payments