What Is a Bail Bond Cosigner (Indemnitor)?

A cosigner is a financially responsible adult who guarantees the defendant will attend every court date and follow all release conditions. The cosigner signs the bond agreement and related documents with the bonding company (the compensated surety).

Who Qualifies to Cosign?

Approval is based on underwriting criteria. Strong candidates usually have…

• Stable income and employment
• Verifiable residence (local ties are a plus)
• Good contactability (answers phone, reliable references)
• Willingness to accept responsibility for court compliance and potential costs

Multiple cosigners can be used on higher-risk or higher-amount bonds.

Cosigner Responsibilities & Liabilities

• Ensure court appearances – Remind the defendant about dates, transportation, and conditions of release.
• Financial responsibility – You guarantee the bond. If the defendant fails to appear and the court orders forfeiture, you can be responsible for costs and amounts specified in your agreement.
• Keep contact updated – Notify the bondsman immediately about changes in address, phone, or employment for you or the defendant.
• Collateral obligations – If collateral is pledged (cash, property, vehicle title), it can be used to cover losses consistent with the written agreement.

Risks and How to Protect Yourself

• Read everything – Review the bond application, indemnity agreement, payment schedule, and any collateral documents before you sign.
• Set expectations – Discuss curfew, transportation, and court reminders with the defendant.
• Know your options – If the defendant becomes noncompliant or a flight risk, ask your bondsman about revoking cosigner status or requesting surrender before the situation worsens (case-by-case).
• Confirm exoneration – After the case concludes and the court exonerates the bond, request written confirmation and release of any collateral per your agreement.

How SB 473 & Local Rule 303 Apply

Kansas Senate Bill 473 (codified within Kansas bail statutes) standardizes how compensated sureties operate in district court, including minimum premium rules and what must be paid before posting. If any part of the minimum premium is financed, the law requires a written premium-financing agreement that the cosigner may also sign.

Sedgwick County Local Rule 303 requires bonds to be posted by authorized agents in good standing with the 18th Judicial District and sets local procedures and documentation standards. Working with an authorized Wichita bondsman helps prevent rejected filings and delays.

Have questions about the paperwork? We’ll walk you through each form and explain your obligations in plain language.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I always need a cosigner?

Not always. Lower-risk situations may be approved without one, but many bonds, especially higher amounts, do require a cosigner or collateral.

Can a cosigner be removed later?

Sometimes. If risk changes or the bond is re-evaluated, the bonding company may approve changes. Ask your agent, decisions are case-specific.

What if the defendant misses court?

Call us immediately. We can help arrange a walk-in or motion to set aside a warrant in coordination with counsel. Financial liability depends on your agreement and the court’s orders.

Is the bond premium refundable?

No. The premium is the fee for guaranteeing appearances and is generally non-refundable, even if charges are dismissed later.

What paperwork will I sign?

Expect a bond application, indemnity agreement, disclosures, and if applicable, a premium-financing agreement and collateral documents, consistent with Kansas law and Local Rule 303 procedures.

Call Baxter Bail Bonds

Do you need to know if you qualify as a cosigner today? We’ll review your situation and explain options step-by-step. Contact Baxter Bail Bonds at (316) 554-0414 or visit 700 N Market, Wichita, KS 67214.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Requirements vary by case and court. Always consult your attorney and your licensed bail agent.