Q: Does bail exoneration end financial obligations to bail bondsman?
On March 26, 2025, the judge exonerated my bail and released me on my own recognizance, with the condition that I take a class and provide proof by a certain date. I had made an upfront payment of $1,800 to the bail bondsman for a $6,000 bond. Despite the bail exoneration, the bail bondsman has been harassing me for additional payments, claiming that the exoneration doesn't affect his demand for money. Based on my understanding of California statutes, "bail exonerated" should relieve both myself and the bail bondsman from further financial obligations regarding the bail bond. How should I handle this situation?
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A:
Even if you are subsequently found guilty of a crime, the bail obligation ends when exoneration occurs. Your financial obligation to the court has officially concluded. This is a separate matter from any conditions the judge may have set for your release on your own recognizance, such as taking a class.
The key distinction here is between your obligation to the court (now ended) and your agreement with the bail bondsman. When a bond is exonerated, the court releases the money back to the bail bondsman, signaling the end of your financial obligation to the court. However, your separate contract with the bail bondsman determines what you owe them.
You should review your original contract with the bail bondsman. If you paid the standard 10% premium (the $1,800) as a non-refundable fee for their service, that payment was earned by them when they posted your bond. The exoneration means they're no longer liable for the full $6,000 bond, but it doesn't typically entitle you to a refund of the premium you already paid.
If the bail bondsman is demanding additional payments beyond what was agreed to in your original contract, you may want to contact the California Department of Insurance, which regulates bail bondsmen, or consult with a lawyer about your specific agreement and circumstances.
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