What should a bail bondsman do if they suspect a defendant is planning to skip bail?

When a bail bondsman suspects that a defendant may be planning to skip bail, acting quickly to apprehend the defendant or monitor their activities is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, the bail bondsman has a financial stake in the successful appearance of the defendant in court. If the defendant absconds, the bondsman may ultimately be liable for the full bail amount. By taking proactive measures, such as surveillance or coordination with law enforcement, the bondsman can prevent the loss of their investment and help ensure that the judicial process is respected.

Additionally, monitoring the defendant’s activities can provide critical insight into their intentions. If the bondsman is able to gather evidence or intelligence regarding the defendant's whereabouts or plans, they can then take appropriate action, such as negotiating with the defendant to encourage compliance or alerting law enforcement to prevent flight.

In contrast, ignoring instincts compromises both financial responsibility and the integrity of the bail system. Consulting with other bondsmen for advice may provide some perspective, but it does not address the urgent need to act. Similarly, notifying the defendant that they are being watched could lead to the opposite effect, potentially prompting them to flee. Therefore, swift and decisive action is the best approach when there is suspicion of a defendant planning to skip