Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

When you’re released on bond, you must follow specific rules & conditions set by the court to stay out of jail while your case is pending. These rules are designed to ensure you appear for court dates, avoid new trouble, and follow lawful behavior. Breaking any of these conditions can lead to your bond being revoked and your return to jail.

Appear at All Court Hearings

The most important rule while on bond is to attend every court appearance. Missing a hearing, even by accident, can result in a bench warrant for your arrest and forfeiture of your bond money. Always know your court dates and arrive early to avoid delays or confusion.

• Tip – Keep copies of all court documents that include hearing dates.
• Penalty – Missing court leads to arrest and loss of bail funds.

Avoid Committing New Crimes

While on bond, you must stay out of legal trouble. Any new arrest, even for a minor offense, can result in your bond being revoked. Courts view new charges as a violation of trust and will likely order you to be taken back into custody until your original case is resolved.

• Example – Getting arrested for DUI, theft, or drug possession can cancel your current bond.

Follow All Court-Ordered Conditions

Depending on the case, judges may impose extra requirements such as,

• No contact with victims or witnesses
• No use of alcohol or illegal drugs
• Mandatory drug or alcohol testing
• GPS or electronic monitoring
• Travel restrictions, especially out of state

Violating any of these can cause your bond to be revoked and may lead to additional charges.

Stay in Touch With Your Bondsman (If Applicable)

If you used a bail bondsman to get out of jail, you must follow their specific requirements too. Bondsmen often require you to check in regularly by phone or in person and keep them updated on your address or employment. Failing to do so may lead them to surrender your bond, which means they’ll ask the court to take you back into custody.

• Tip – Always communicate changes in address or phone number to your bondsman.

Stay Within Approved Areas

Many people on bond are required to remain within their county or state. Leaving without permission from the court or bondsman can be considered a bond violation. If you need to travel, your attorney can file a request for permission in advance.

Maintain Good Behavior & Communication

Following all laws, respecting curfews, and staying in contact with your attorney are essential while on bond. Courts view responsible behavior as a sign of reliability and may consider it positively in future hearings or sentencing.

Understand the Consequences of Violating the Bond

If you violate your bond conditions, the judge can,

• Revoke your bond and issue a warrant for your arrest
• Keep your bond money (bond forfeiture)
• Increase your bond amount
• Add new criminal charges

While on bond, you must attend all court hearings, obey the law, follow court rules, and stay in touch with your bondsman. Violating any condition can lead to arrest, bond forfeiture, or stricter release terms.