Thursday

Bond Violations in Harris County Texas

When a person is on bond in Harris County, they are typically required to follow certain terms and conditions set by the court. Violating these terms can have serious consequences and may result in the revocation of the bond. Here are some common ways a person on bond can violate its terms:

  1. Failure to appear: Failing to appear in court for scheduled hearings or proceedings is a direct violation of the bond. The court relies on the individual's presence as a condition of their release.
  2. Committing new offenses: Engaging in criminal activity while on bond is a significant violation. This includes being arrested for a new crime, even if unrelated to the initial charge.
  3. Travel restrictions: Bond conditions may include restrictions on travel. Violating these restrictions by leaving the designated area or traveling without permission can be considered a violation.
  4. Contact with victims or witnesses: In cases involving victims or witnesses, the court may impose a "no-contact" provision as part of the bond conditions. Initiating contact or attempting to intimidate or influence these individuals can lead to a violation and possibly new criminal charges being filed.
  5. Failure to comply with orders: Violating court orders, such as restraining orders or protective orders, is a violation of the bond conditions. Violating a restraining or protective order can also lead to new criminal charges being filed.
  6. Substance abuse or alcohol violations: If the court has ordered the individual to abstain from alcohol or drugs, testing positive for substances or failing to comply with testing requirements is a violation.
  7. Possession of firearms or weapons: In certain cases, individuals may be prohibited from possessing firearms or weapons as part of their bond conditions. Possessing such items can result in a violation.
  8. Failure to report: If the court requires the individual to report regularly to a probation officer or any other designated authority, failing to do so is considered a violation.
  9. Changing residence without permission: Some bond conditions require individuals to seek permission from the court before changing their residence. Failing to do so can be a violation.
  10. Tampering with electronic monitoring devices: If the person is under electronic monitoring, tampering with or removing the monitoring device is a violation.

It's important to note that the specific conditions of a bond can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances of the case. The court determines the bond conditions on a case-by-case basis, and violating any of these conditions can have serious consequences, including the revocation of the bond, re-arrest, and possibly new criminal charges being filed depending on the type of violation.