You should consider hiring a fugitive recovery agent (bounty hunter) when a defendant skips bail and needs to be brought back into custody. This is usually necessary if you are a bail bond co-signer or a bail bondsman facing financial loss.

Signs It’s Time to Hire a Fugitive Recovery Agent

The Defendant Missed Court (Bail Jumping)

• If the person you bailed out fails to appear in court, the court will issue a bench warrant, and their bail may be forfeited.

Bail Is At Risk of Being Forfeited

• If you paid cash bail, you risk losing all your money.
• If you used a bondsman, they may demand you pay the full bail amount or surrender collateral.
• A fugitive recovery agent can help track down the defendant before forfeiture deadlines (usually 90-180 days).

The Bondsman Is Holding You Responsible

• If you co-signed the bail bond, the bail bondsman may require you to pay the full amount or assist in locating the fugitive.
• Hiring a bounty hunter can help avoid financial loss.

The Defendant Is Avoiding Arrest

• If the fugitive is hiding, traveling, or using fake identities, professional bounty hunters have access to databases, surveillance, and legal authority to track them down.

Law Enforcement Isn’t Prioritizing the Case

• Police may not actively pursue bail jumpers, especially if the crime is non-violent.
• A fugitive recovery agent works faster and focuses solely on locating the defendant.

What Does a Fugitive Recovery Agent Do?

Uses surveillance, tracking, and informants to locate fugitives.
Has the legal right to enter a fugitive’s home (if the bail contract allows).
Works across state lines to return fugitives to custody.
Uses negotiation or force (if necessary) to apprehend the defendant.

If a defendant skips bail and you risk financial loss, hiring a fugitive recovery agent can help bring them back before the bail is forfeited.