Being charged with a crime is a big deal. If you are indicted and charged with a crime, the court may set you free on bail so you can carry on with your life while awaiting the outcome of your case.
However, it is important to understand that bail is never an acquittal. While you may be free to be with your family and go to work, it helps to understand that every bail comes with its share of sanctions. Here are three common reasons why the court may revoke your bail.
Interfering with the legal process
The prospect of going to jail can be unsettling to most people. As such, it is understandable to want to exploit every resource at your disposal to get off the hook. However, doing anything that might interfere with law enforcement is a bad idea.
For example, contacting the alleged victim in your case to try to talk them into changing their story or intimidating any witnesses will definitely bring new problems – along with a revoked bail.
Getting arrested on a new charge
Make no mistake, it is important that you are on your best behavior at all times, and especially when you are out on bail.
Don’t hang around with anybody whose habits could lead to problems and make sure that you stay out of any additional legal trouble. If you’re charged with anything new – even something minor – you may lose your bail.
Violating your bail terms
The court will set out conditions that you must meet at all times to keep your bail. These may include avoiding any contact with your accuser and appearing in court at the appropriate time. Violating your bail terms can lead to the revocation of your bail.
The fact that you are out on bail means that you can better participate in your own defense. Knowing your legal options can help you safeguard your rights and interests while dealing with a criminal charge.