Typically, the individual who posts bail, whether for themselves or another person, retains the right to request the court revoke the bond and exonerate it. This process generally leads to the defendant’s surrender and return to custody. For example, if a defendant violates the conditions of their release, such as failing to appear for a court date or violating a restraining order, the person who posted the bond might choose to withdraw their support and initiate the bond revocation process to mitigate their financial liability.
The ability to revoke a bond offers several benefits. It provides a mechanism for the surety to protect their financial investment if the defendant fails to adhere to the court’s stipulations. It can also incentivize defendants to comply with release conditions, recognizing that the person who posted their bail can withdraw support. Historically, this process evolved as a way to balance the interests of the accused, the surety, and the justice system, ensuring court appearances while providing a level of recourse for those assuming financial responsibility for pretrial release.