Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026
Definition: Property or assets pledged to a bail bondsman to secure a bail bond, in addition to the 10% premium. Collateral can include real estate, vehicle titles, jewelry, or other valuables. Must be returned within 21 days of bond discharge.
Category: Bail & Bond · Statute: F.S. 648.442 · Source: Florida Legislature
Florida Statute 648.442 — Return of Collateral"Any collateral received by a bail bond agent shall be returned... within 21 business days from the date the liability on the bond has been terminated."
Common Types of Collateral
- Real estate deed/title — Most commonly used for high bail amounts
- Vehicle title — Pink slip held by the bondsman
- Jewelry, electronics — High-value personal property
- Bank accounts — Funds held in escrow
When Is Collateral Seized?
Collateral is only seized if the defendant fails to appear and the bond is forfeited. If the defendant attends all court dates and the case concludes, collateral must be returned within 21 business days regardless of the case outcome (guilty, not guilty, or dismissed).