Which term describes loss of bail if the accused fails to appear?

Which term describes loss of bail if the accused fails to appear?

• A. Remission of bail
• B. Surcharge
• C. Traveler's check
• D. Forfeiture of Bail

Answer: (D)

Loss of bail when the accused fails to appear is called forfeiture of bail. Bail is posted to ensure the defendant shows up in court; if they don’t appear as required, the court keeps the posted amount as a penalty and to cover potential costs, effectively turning it into court revenue. This term specifically describes that loss to the state. Remission of bail would mean canceling the bail requirement, a surcharge is just an added fee, and a traveler’s check isn’t a relevant bail term. Forfeiture is the precise concept that captures the consequence of non-appearance.

Loss of bail when the accused fails to appear is called forfeiture of bail. Bail is posted to ensure the defendant shows up in court; if they don’t appear as required, the court keeps the posted amount as a penalty and to cover potential costs, effectively turning it into court revenue. This term specifically describes that loss to the state. Remission of bail would mean canceling the bail requirement, a surcharge is just an added fee, and a traveler’s check isn’t a relevant bail term. Forfeiture is the precise concept that captures the consequence of non-appearance.