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Introduction: In Snohomish County, bail bond companies and corporate sureties are required to follow specific legal procedures to operate within the county courts. Administrative Order 07-24 establishes the framework for the justification of bail bond companies and corporate sureties in Snohomish County Superior Court, District Court, and Juvenile Court. This order ensures that all bail bond companies meet necessary financial and operational standards before they can post bonds.

Key Procedures for Bail Bond Companies

1. Order of Justification

No bail bond company or corporate surety is permitted to post a bond unless it is operating under an approved order of justification from the Snohomish County Superior Court. The order applies to all courts except municipal courtswithin the county. Bail bond companies must adhere to this rule to ensure their bail bond agents can post bonds legally.

2. Annual Hearing

Each year in December, the Snohomish County Superior Court Presiding Judge holds a hearing to review petitions for justification of bail bond companies. The Civil Division of the Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office notifies all companies with current authorization to post bonds in Snohomish County. Any company that wishes to continue operating must file a petition for the upcoming calendar year.

3. Filing a Petition for Justification

To obtain or renew an order of justification, a bail bond company must file a petition with the Snohomish County Clerk. This petition must include:

  • The state business license for the company and any branch offices.
  • The Certificate of Authority from the Washington State Insurance Commission (for companies posting surety bonds).
  • Power of attorney for each bail bond agent authorized to post surety bonds.
  • Proof of financial stability, such as letters of credit or other guarantees.
  • A current list of the company’s bond obligations.
  • License verification for each bail bond agent.

Additionally, agents must submit a declaration detailing their personal information and any criminal history, signed under penalty of perjury.

4. Hearing on Justification

During the hearing on justification, the court will review the financial, corporate, and agent responsibilities of the company. The Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney and other courts named in the petition may submit objections or evidence against the petition. If the petition is incomplete or insufficient, the court may deny the order of justification either in whole or in part.

5. Conditions and Limitations

If the court approves the petition, the order of justification will specify:

  • The corporate surety authorized to post bonds.
  • The maximum bond amount allowed (typically capped at $250,000 unless otherwise approved).
  • The authorized agents.
  • Any additional conditions the company must meet.

This order is effective until December 31st of the calendar year and must be renewed annually.

Responsibilities of Bail Bond Companies

1. Agent Verification

Before conducting any bail bond transactions, companies must provide a copy of the order of justification and current photos of all bail bond agents to the Snohomish County Jail. Both the Snohomish County Jail and the Denney Juvenile Justice Center must verify that bonds are posted according to the terms of the order.

2. Adding New Agents

If a company wishes to add new bail bond agents, it must file a Notice of Intent to Add Agents with the Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk and notify the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. If there are no objections within 10 days, the agent is automatically added.

3. Reporting Agent Terminations

Companies must notify the court and the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office if an authorized agent is terminated. Failure to report the termination within 20 days can result in the suspension or revocation of the company’s order of justification.

Suspension or Revocation of Justification

The Snohomish County Superior Court may suspend or revoke an order of justification if there is evidence of financial instability or if the bail bond company or its agents are not in compliance with the order’s requirements. The Prosecuting Attorney may file a notice seeking suspension or revocation, and a hearing will be set within 30 days.

Conclusion

The justification of bail bond companies in Snohomish County is a rigorous process designed to maintain the integrity of the bail system. By requiring annual hearings and strict compliance with financial and operational standards, Snohomish County Superior Court ensures that only reliable bail bond companies and corporate sureties are allowed to post bonds. For companies, understanding and following the terms of Administrative Order 07-24 is essential to continue conducting business in Snohomish County courts.

This article offers insights into the legal framework surrounding bail bond companies in Snohomish County, ensuring compliance with Superior Court procedures and promoting transparency in the bail system.

Need Help with Bail Bond Justification in Snohomish County?

Blanford Law can assist with your bail bond justification needs, ensuring compliance with Snohomish County Superior Court requirements. Whether you need help filing a petition or navigating the order of justification process, we are here to help.

Review our client resources here to understand more about the bail bond procedures, or contact us anytime for your urgent legal needs. Our experienced team will guide you through every step and ensure your business is in full compliance.

For Other Bail-Related Issues, Here Are Some Available Articles:

Each article offers insights into different aspects of the bail process, whether you’re a defendant, a family member, or someone looking to become a bail bond agent. Explore these resources for further information on how bail works in Washington State.

About Blanford Law:

At Blanford Law, we believe in providing no-nonsense, relentless, fair, and honest legal representation. We listen to our clients instead of fast-talking them because that’s just who we are. Ken Blanford founded this law firm more than 20 years ago with a deeply rooted belief that everyone deserves the best legal representation available. We uphold the values of respect, integrity, and transparency, without assumptions or preconceived notions.

If you or someone you know is facing criminal accusations or has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, reach out to us at 253-720-9304 or email us at info@blanfordlaw.com. We’re here to help.