Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026
Definition: The person who signs the bail bond contract and assumes financial responsibility if the defendant fails to appear. The indemnitor agrees to pay the full bail amount if the bond is forfeited.
Category: Bail & Bond · Statute: F.S. 903.09 · Source: Florida Legislature
What Does an Indemnitor Do?
When you co-sign a bail bond, you become the indemnitor — the person financially responsible for the defendant's appearance in court. Your responsibilities include:
- Paying the 10% bail bond premium
- Ensuring the defendant attends all court dates
- Paying the full bail amount if the defendant skips court
- Paying any recovery costs if the bondsman must locate the defendant
- Notifying the bondsman if the defendant changes address or plans to travel
Can You Remove Yourself as an Indemnitor?
Yes. You can request to be removed from a bail bond by contacting the bondsman. If approved, the bond is surrendered — meaning the defendant is taken back into custody. New bail must then be arranged. This is a significant decision and should not be taken lightly.