What Does It Mean to Be Out on Bond for a Felony Case in Mississippi?
Being arrested and charged with a felony is one of the most stressful experiences a person can face. For many, the first question after an arrest is: “How do I get out of jail?” That’s where bond comes in. But being out on bond is not the end of your case—it’s just the beginning. In fact, what you do while out on bond can have a major impact on the outcome of your case.
What Does “Being on Bond” Mean?
When you’re released on bond in a felony case, it means the court has set conditions for your release while your case is pending. You or a bonding company pay money (or sign a financial guarantee) as assurance that you’ll appear in court when required. If you don’t show up or violate conditions, you risk being arrested again and losing the money posted for your release.
How Long Can You Be on Bond Before Your Case Moves Forward?
One of the most common questions I get as a defense lawyer is: “Why haven’t I heard anything yet?”
Felony cases often take months—and sometimes more than a year—before a defendant sees a courtroom. This is because felony charges in Mississippi (and many other states) usually go through the grand jury process. That process takes time, and every county moves at a different pace.
Being on bond doesn’t mean your case has been forgotten or dismissed. It means you are waiting for the legal process to move forward.
Common Mistakes People Make While on Bond
1. Thinking the Case Went Away With Time
Just because months (or even years) pass without hearing from the court doesn’t mean your felony case disappeared. In fact, prosecutors often wait for months before presenting a case to the grand jury. Always assume your case is active until your attorney confirms otherwise.
2. Losing Contact With the Bonding Company
If you used a bondsman, you usually have ongoing obligations: checking in, updating your phone number and address, and keeping them informed about court dates. If you don’t stay in contact, they can revoke your bond and have you arrested—even if you haven’t missed a court date.
3. Violating Bond Conditions
Courts often set strict rules while you’re out on bond. These can include not drinking alcohol, using drugs, or possessing firearms. Two of the most common violations we see are contacting someone in your case despite a no-contact order and getting arrested for a new crime. Any new arrest can put your bond at risk, and if it’s a felony carrying more than five years in prison, the judge is required by law to revoke your bond.
4. Failing to Stay in Touch With Your Lawyer
Your defense attorney needs to know where to reach you when there’s an update. If you change your number or move without telling your lawyer, you could miss critical court dates or deadlines.
Bottom Line: Bond Is Not Freedom—It’s a Legal Responsibility
Being out on bond gives you time to work, support your family, and prepare your defense, but it comes with serious responsibilities. If you treat bond as if your case has “gone away,” you may find yourself back in jail facing even more problems.
If you are out on bond for a felony case in Mississippi and you’re unsure about what to do next, contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer. The sooner you understand the process and avoid mistakes, the better your chances of protecting your future.