Can I Co-Sign a Bail Bond if I Live Out of State?

You get an emergency call from your sister, who is attending school in Pennsylvania. She was arrested and is now sitting in a jail cell. She needs help getting a bail bond. Your parents have refused to help and she’s turning to you for assistance. She just needs someone to co-sign the bond with her. You’re glad to help her out — however, you live in New Jersey. Is it possible to co-sign the bail bond since you live out of state?

It’s a concern for many whether they can co-sign a bail bond if they live outside of Pennsylvania. And yes, you can be a co-signer; everything can be done over the phone or through our email system. But before you do, you need to know what co-signing a bail bond entails.

In a previous blog, we explained the responsibilities you face when you co-sign a bail bond. As an Indemnitor, you have the responsibility of making sure the defendant attends all court dates and stays out of trouble. You are also responsible for the bond payments if the defendant misses payments. These are important facts to remember, especially if you live out of state. Can you guarantee that your sister will be going to all her court dates? Do you have the money available in case a payment is missed? She won’t get arrested again, will she? These are all questions you should take into consideration before you co-sign for a bail bond, especially if you live out of state.

It also depends on your relationship with the defendant. In the scenario above, you may not have trouble co-signing the bail bond since you are related to the defendant. But let’s change the scenario and say instead of your sister, it’s your best friend from high school and you’re attending school in another state. The chances of you becoming a co-signer may be a little harder and our bondsman may say that a more established Indemnitor is needed for the bond.

If you are in need of a bail bond or become a co-signer, we can help. Contact a bail bonds agent at Andrew Pizzo Bail Bonds today and get your loved one free.