What is typically the outcome if the bail bondsman does not locate the defendant who failed to appear?

The outcome of forfeiture is significant in the bail bonds process. When a defendant fails to appear in court as required, the bail bondsman is held financially responsible for the bail amount. This is because the bail bondsman has essentially pledged that the defendant will show up for their court date in exchange for a percentage of the bail. If the defendant does not appear, the court will typically issue a forfeiture of the bond, meaning the bail bondsman loses the money they put up as bail.

This situation emphasizes the importance of ensuring that defendants understand their obligations when released on bail and the financial consequences of failing to comply. The forfeited amount can serve as a strong incentive for the bail bondsman to locate the defendant and ensure they fulfill their court obligations, as the bondsman seeks to mitigate their loss from the forfeiture.