When someone hears the word "bail," they often assume they’ll need to come up with a large amount of cash or put something valuable on the line, like a home or car. But in North Carolina, that’s not always the case. Unsecured bail bonds allow certain individuals to be released from jail without posting collateral at all.
This guide breaks down exactly what an unsecured bond is, how it works, when it's used, and what happens if the person released doesn’t follow the rules. If you're navigating the bail process for the first time, this is essential information.
An unsecured bond, sometimes referred to as a "signature bond," is a bail agreement that does not require collateral upfront. Instead, the defendant agrees in writing to return for all scheduled court appearances. If they fail to appear, they are legally obligated to pay the full bail amount set by the judge.
Unlike secured bail, which requires cash or collateral to guarantee release, unsecured bail depends on the defendant’s word and legal promise. It is still a serious agreement with financial consequences if violated.
In a secured bond scenario, the court demands money or property to ensure a defendant returns for court. The value of the bond acts as insurance that the accused will follow through. If they fail to appear, the collateral can be seized or forfeited.
With an unsecured bond, there is no property or payment required at the time of release. However, if the person misses a court date, they still owe the full bail amount. This makes unsecured bonds more accessible, but also potentially more risky if obligations aren’t met.
We break down the differences in more detail on our secured vs. unsecured bonds blog.
Judges evaluate multiple factors when determining whether an individual qualifies for an unsecured bond. These include:
Unsecured bonds are more common in lower-risk cases, such as nonviolent misdemeanors or first-time offenses. For example, someone arrested for a minor infraction, who has a stable job and family in the area, may be released on an unsecured bond as long as the court believes they are not a flight risk.
North Carolina statutes allow for this type of discretion. According to NC General Statutes § 15A-534, judges may authorize release on an unsecured bond when they believe the defendant will return to court voluntarily.
The biggest mistake someone can make after being released on any bond is failing to show up to court. When it comes to an unsecured bond, skipping court means that the defendant is now responsible for paying the full bail amount set by the court.
Consequences of missing court on an unsecured bond may include:
If someone else co-signed for the bond, they could also be held financially responsible. To learn more about what happens when someone skips court, read our blog on that exact situation.
According to the Prison Policy Institute, failure to appear is one of the primary reasons defendants are re-arrested and can lead to significantly higher bail amounts in future cases.
Even though an unsecured bond requires no collateral upfront, it is not free. The court assigns a dollar value to the bond. If the defendant fails to appear, the court will move to collect that amount.
Depending on the case, the court may issue a civil judgment to recover the debt. This means the defendant could face wage garnishment, liens on assets, or damage to their credit. If a family member or friend co-signed the bond, they may also be pursued for repayment.
Unsecured bonds are a privilege, not a right. And while they can be helpful in easing the burden of an arrest, they come with very real legal and financial obligations.
When used appropriately, unsecured bonds offer several key advantages, especially for individuals who may not have the financial means to pay bail or post property:
However, these benefits come with serious responsibilities. A missed court date could turn a no-cost release into a debt that lingers long after the case is resolved.
While bail bondsmen are more commonly associated with secured bail, a bondsman can still provide valuable guidance and assistance when unsecured bail is involved. At Big Mike Bail Bonds, we understand how confusing and overwhelming the legal system can be, especially during an arrest.
We work with clients across Wake, Durham, and surrounding counties, providing support before, during, and after bail is posted. If you're unsure what type of bail has been set or what your options are, we can help you understand the terms and move forward with confidence.
Need more answers? Browse our blog page for helpful tips and bail advice.
Whether you or a loved one has been released on an unsecured bond, staying organized is the key to avoiding further legal trouble. We recommend to:
If anything changes or becomes unclear, reach out to the court or contact your bondsman immediately.
Unsecured bonds can be a helpful tool for getting someone out of jail quickly, without requiring them to put up property or cash. But they also carry weight. The commitment to show up in court is serious, and missing that responsibility can result in costly consequences.
At Big Mike Bail Bonds, we help individuals and families understand all types of bail—including unsecured options—and we’re always here to support you with fast service, clear information, and zero judgment.
If you have questions about unsecured bonds or need help now, contact us today. We’re available 24/7 to answer your call and walk you through every step.