Legal Question in Criminal Law in California
Bail Forfeiture or shady bail bondsman?
Several years ago I had 3 cases in which I was the defendant. In each case I had bail set and paid through a bailbondsman. All the cases were resolved and were either pleaded or went to trial. Either way I attended all court dates and served the time I was required to serve. Yesterday I get a call from a collection agency stating that I owe money because of a bail forfeiture. I know that I was late for court one day and the judge kept me over night as a punishment. They said this might be the problem but the court never revoked my bail as far as I know and the judge didnt say anything to that effect. Either way that case was eventually pleaded out. Someone else stated that the bail company might be trying to pull a fast one. Where would I find out if my bail was ever forfeited?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Bail Forfeiture or shady bail bondsman?
You may want to start with sending a validation of alleged debt letter to the third party collector at issue. They would have to trace and provide accurate documentation of the origination of the debt. If not, they must legally discharge it according to the FDCPA rules. If you would like such assistance, contact us directly.
Re: Bail Forfeiture or shady bail bondsman?
The clerk's office in the courthouse where your cases were handled should still have the dockets and files. If the court ordered your bail forfeited these records should contain the order, or at least confirm that it was made.
Come courts' dockets are available on line, but others are not. Some online dockets only show cases that are pending or recently closed. You should contact the court clerk or check the court's website to see what information is available electronically.
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