The Alabama Cr 20 form is a legal document used in the state of Alabama that allows a bondsman to surrender a defendant to law enforcement. This form is essential when a surety wishes to take action against a defendant who has failed to appear in court. It outlines the responsibilities of the bondsman and the procedures for arresting the defendant.
The Alabama CR 20 form is an essential document used in the state's judicial system, particularly concerning bail and the responsibilities of sureties. This form facilitates the process by which a bondsman can surrender a defendant to law enforcement. It outlines the circumstances under which a surety may act, such as when a defendant has failed to appear in court or when the case is still pending. The form includes sections for the identification of the accused, ensuring that all necessary personal details are recorded accurately. Additionally, it grants the bondsman the authority to arrest the defendant anywhere within Alabama, emphasizing the legal framework that governs such actions. By designating an agent, the bondsman can delegate the responsibility of arrest, which is also documented on the form. Important notices remind the bondsman and jailer of their obligations regarding the return of the process and the legal implications of any actions taken. Understanding the Alabama CR 20 form is crucial for both bondsmen and defendants, as it plays a significant role in the bail process and the enforcement of court orders.
State of Alabama Unified Judicial System
Form CR-20(front) Rev.3/95
BONDSMAN’S PROCESS
CASE NUMBER
IN THE_____________________________________COURT OF_____________________________________, ALABAMA
(Circuit, District, or Municipal)(Name of County or Municipality)
STATE OF ALABAMA
MUNICIPALITY OF_______________________________________v._________________________________________
Defendant
and________________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Sureties
WHEREAS, a surety on the bail in the above-styled case has expressed his or her wish to surrender the defendant to the custody of the sheriff or jailer and,
WHEREAS, the clerk of court has checked the records and has found that the above-styled case is still pending; and that the defendant or his or her sureties have not been discharged of their obligations; or that the records in the above-styled case reflect that the defendant has failed to appear for the case on which the obligation of bail as required and a warrant has been issued for the arrest of the defendant. NOW, THEREFORE, this process is issued, as required by law, giving the right to the surety (bondsman) to arrest the defendant at any place within the State of Alabama, or allowing the surety to authorize another person to arrest the defendant by an endorsement in writing on this document below or on an attachment to this document. The surety, bondsman or designee shall forthwith, after the arrest, take the defendant to the jail, as custodian thereof.
Issued this ______________________ day of ____________________, ___________.
________________________________________________
Clerk of Court
BONDSMAN DESIGNEE
I ____________________________________________, as surety on the bail in the above-styled
case, hereby designate ___________________________, as my agent for the purposes of arresting the
defendant as provided above.
Signature of Bondsman/Surety
BONDSMAN RETURN
On this ____________ day of ________________________, _______, at ____________________ (time),
I,___________________________________, (Bondsman/Agent for________________________ Surety),
surrendered the defendant to the _____________________________jail.
(Name of Municipality or County)
FORM CR-20 (BACK) REV.3/95
NOTICE TO BONDSMAN OR BONDMAN’S DESIGNEE
(1)When notified by the clerk of court to return this process, you must return it within five (5) days of receiving the notice.
(2)Execution of this process after the defendant has been discharged is an illegal arrest.
NOTICE TO THE JAILER
Upon receipt of this Bondsman’s Process, you must return this Process to the clerk within five (5) days of receipt.
IDENTIFICATION OF ACCUSED PERSON
Name of Accused Person
Telephone Number
Social Security Number
Date of Birth
Age
Race
Sex
Height
Weight
Hair
Eyes
Other
Address
City
State
Zip Code
Name of Employer
Employer’s Telephone Number
Address of Employer
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The Alabama CR-20 form serves a specific function in the bail process, but there are several other legal documents that share similar characteristics. One such document is the Bail Bond. A bail bond is a written agreement that allows a defendant to be released from jail in exchange for a sum of money or property. Like the CR-20 form, it involves a surety who guarantees that the defendant will appear in court. Both documents require signatures from the surety and involve the court's oversight, ensuring that the defendant's rights and obligations are clearly outlined.
Another similar document is the Arrest Warrant. An arrest warrant is issued by a judge or magistrate, allowing law enforcement to apprehend a suspect. While the CR-20 form allows a surety to arrest a defendant, an arrest warrant provides law enforcement with the legal authority to do so. Both documents are crucial in the criminal justice process, as they ensure that individuals who are accused of crimes are brought before the court to answer for their actions.
The Notice to Appear is also comparable to the CR-20 form. This document requires a defendant to appear in court at a specified date and time. Similar to the CR-20, it holds the defendant accountable for their obligations to the court. Both documents help maintain the integrity of the judicial process by ensuring that defendants do not evade their responsibilities.
The Surety Agreement is another relevant document. This agreement outlines the terms under which a surety agrees to take on the responsibility for a defendant's bail. Like the CR-20 form, it involves the surety's commitment to ensure the defendant appears in court. Both documents emphasize the importance of accountability in the bail process and provide a framework for the surety's obligations.
The Release Order is similar as well. This document is issued by a court to officially release a defendant from custody after they have posted bail. The CR-20 form, while allowing a surety to take action against a defendant, also reflects the importance of formal documentation in the release process. Both documents serve to protect the rights of the defendant while ensuring compliance with court orders.
Understanding various legal documents is crucial for navigating the complexities of the judicial system. One such important document that can aid individuals is the PDF Templates Online, which offers templates that can help simplify processes related to transactions and ownership transfers, similar to the way a bail process is documented through various forms.
The Bench Warrant is another document that shares similarities with the CR-20 form. A bench warrant is issued when a defendant fails to appear in court, allowing law enforcement to arrest them. Like the CR-20, it reflects the court's authority to enforce compliance. Both documents are tools for ensuring that defendants fulfill their obligations to the judicial system.
The Summons is also comparable. A summons is a document that notifies a defendant of a legal action and requires them to appear in court. Like the CR-20 form, it serves as a formal notice that holds the defendant accountable for their legal responsibilities. Both documents are essential in maintaining the rule of law and ensuring that defendants are aware of their obligations.
The Indictment is another document that bears similarities. An indictment formally charges a defendant with a crime and initiates the prosecution process. While the CR-20 form deals with bail and sureties, both documents play critical roles in the criminal justice system. They ensure that defendants are aware of the charges against them and the legal consequences of their actions.
Lastly, the Probation Agreement can be seen as similar. This document outlines the terms under which a defendant is released into the community under supervision. Like the CR-20 form, it emphasizes accountability and compliance with the law. Both documents are designed to protect public safety while allowing individuals to maintain some degree of freedom as they navigate the legal system.
Filling out and using the Alabama CR-20 form is a crucial step for sureties involved in the bail process. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
By following these guidelines, sureties can navigate the process more effectively and ensure compliance with Alabama law.
The Alabama Cr 20 form is a legal document used by bondsmen in the state of Alabama. It allows a surety (bondsman) to surrender a defendant to the custody of the sheriff or jailer. This form is essential when a defendant has failed to appear in court or when the surety wishes to take action regarding the defendant's bail obligations.
The form can be utilized by licensed bondsmen or sureties who have posted bail for a defendant. It allows them to take appropriate action if the defendant does not comply with court appearances or other obligations associated with their bail.
The form requires several key pieces of information, including:
Once the form is completed, the bondsman or their designee can arrest the defendant anywhere within Alabama. After the arrest, they must take the defendant to the designated jail immediately.
The bondsman must return the process to the clerk of court within five days of receiving notice from the clerk. This ensures that the court is informed of the defendant's status in a timely manner.
If the bondsman executes the process after the defendant has been discharged, it constitutes an illegal arrest. This could lead to legal repercussions for the bondsman or surety involved.
Upon receiving the Bondsman’s Process, the jailer is required to return the form to the clerk within five days. This ensures proper documentation and tracking of the defendant's custody status.
Yes, the bondsman can designate another person to arrest the defendant. This designation must be made in writing on the form or as an attachment. This allows for flexibility in who can carry out the arrest.
The Alabama Cr 20 form can typically be obtained from local courthouses or online through the Alabama Unified Judicial System's website. It is important to ensure you are using the most current version of the form.