What can be the consequence of a defendant defaulting on a bail bond?

When a defendant defaults on a bail bond, the co-signer becomes liable for the full bail amount. This is because the bail bond essentially acts as a guarantee to the court that the defendant will appear for their scheduled court date. If the defendant fails to do so, the bond is forfeited, and the surety (which is typically the co-signer) is responsible for paying the full amount of the bond to the court.

The responsibility of the co-signer is crucial in the bail bond process, as it ensures that there is a financial incentive for someone (the co-signer) to ensure the defendant appears in court. This legal obligation emphasizes the seriousness of the situation and the potential financial impact on the co-signer if the defendant does not comply with the conditions of their release.

The other options do not accurately reflect the legal consequences of defaulting on a bail bond, as the bail amount is not automatically refunded, court charges are not dismissed, and fees can still be charged by the bail bondsman for the services provided.