Bail jumping is defined as the intentional failure to comply with conditions of bail.
Common bail conditions include a requirement that the defendant attend all court appearances, keep the court notified of his or her current address, and commit no new crimes while a case is pending.
Case-specific bail conditions can also be applied. Often, in crimes alleging violence, no contact with the purported victim will be ordered. In crimes where alcohol is believed to be involved, the court may require the defendant to avoid consuming alcoholic beverages while on bond.
Sometimes, geographical restrictions are placed on a defendant (such as avoiding the street of residence of a potential victim). In the event that a person on bond is caught violating a bond provision, the state has the ability to pursue bail jumping charges.
Whether the bail jumping charge is a felony or a misdemeanor depends on the nature of the underlying case for which the person is on bond. If the underlying case is a misdemeanor, then the bail jumping charge would also be a misdemeanor. If the underlying case is a felony, then the bail jumping charge would also be a felony.
If you’ve been charged with bail jumping, it’s crucial to contact a criminal defense attorney.
Learn more about how we can put this experience to work for you. Call 608-237-6854 or contact us online for a free 30 minute initial consultation about your criminal defense or family law case at our office in the heart of downtown Madison. We also offer off-site, weekend and evening appointments upon request.
