Section 17-6-70 – When forfeiture occurs

May 11, 2021 | Criminal Procedure, Georgia

(a) A bond forfeiture occurs at the end of the court day upon the failure of appearance of a principal of any bond or recognizance given for the appearance of that person.
(b) An appearance bond shall not be forfeited unless the clerk of the court gave the surety at least 72 hours’ written notice, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, before the time of the required appearance of the principal. Notice shall not be necessary if the time for appearance is within 72 hours from the time of arrest, provided the time for appearance is stated on the bond, or where the principal is given actual notice in open court.

OCGA ยง 17-6-70