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In the intricate web of legal procedures and documents that guide the judicial system in Alabama, the Form CR-28 stands out as a crucial tool for sureties in the bail bond process. This form, an Application for Bondsman's Process, serves a very specific purpose within the state's unified judicial system. It allows a bondsman, who has provided a bail bond for a defendant, to initiate the process of surrendering the defendant back into the custody of law enforcement. This mechanism is not only indicative of the financial and legal responsibilities that bondsmen undertake but also underscores the procedural pathways afforded to them under Alabama law. The form requires detailed information including the case number, court details, and particulars of both the municipality or county and the defendant in question. By completing and submitting this application, the surety formally requests the issuance of a process that will enable the arrest of the defendant by an authorized person, at any location within Alabama. What makes this document particularly noteworthy is its role in balancing the rights and obligations of the defendant, the surety, and the judiciary, ensuring that each entity within this triad operates within a framework of legal compliance and procedural fairness. Embedded within this seemingly straightforward form is the embodiment of the legal system's complexity and its constant navigation between individual liberties and societal needs.

Cr 28 Alabama Example

State of Alabama Unified Judicial System

Form CR-28

Rev.8/97

APPLICATION FOR

BONDSMAN’S PROCESS

CASE NUMBER

IN THE____________________________________COURT OF________________________________________, ALABAMA

(Circuit, District, or Municipal)

(Name of Municipality or County)

STATE OF ALABAMA

MUNICIPALITY OF __________________________________________________

V._______________________________________________________________________________________, DEFENDANT

TO THE CLERK OF THE ABOVE-NAMED COURT:

WHEREAS, I, the undersigned, as surety on the undertaking of bail of the defendant, desiring to surrender the defendant to the custody of the sheriff or jailer, hereby apply for the issuance of a Bondsman’s Process so that the defendant may be arrested by me or another person designated by my endorsement on the process at any place in the State of Alabama.

Date of Application_________________________

_________________________________________________

 

Surety

 

_________________________________________________

 

(Street Address/P.O. Box)

 

_________________________________________________

 

(City, State and Zip Code)

Form Specs

Fact Description
Form Title Application for Bondsman’s Process
Form Number CR-28
Revision Date August 1997
Governing Law State of Alabama Unified Judicial System

Detailed Guide for Writing Cr 28 Alabama

When navigating the legal terrain of bail bonds and suretyship in Alabama, it becomes imperative for the involved parties, especially the surety or bail bondsman, to understand the process thoroughly. The CR-28 form, also known as the Application for Bondsman’s Process, plays a critical role in this scenario. It is a formal request to the court for the issuance of an arrest warrant against a defendant whom the bondsman wishes to surrender back into custody. Filling out this document correctly ensures that a bondsman can legally act to arrest or have the defendant arrested and returned to the jurisdiction of the court. Let’s walk through the steps to complete this form accurately.

  1. At the top of the form, where it says "IN THE ______________________________ COURT OF ___________________________________, ALABAMA", fill in the appropriate court type (Circuit, District, or Municipal) and the name of the Municipality or County where the court is located.
  2. In the space provided after "STATE OF ALABAMA MUNICIPALITY OF", enter the name of the municipality of the court you are dealing with.
  3. Further down, you will see "V. ___________________________, DEFENDANT". Here, you must write the full name of the defendant against whom the bail bond was issued.
  4. Move to the statement that begins with "WHEREAS, I, the undersigned, as surety..". There’s no need to alter this text, as it is a standard declaration. However, ensure you read it carefully to understand your declarations and commitments fully.
  5. Look for the "Date of Application" line. Enter the current date on which you are filling out the form.
  6. Below the date, provide the full name of the surety in the line provided. This should be the individual or entity taking responsibility for the bond and desiring to surrender the defendant.
  7. In the spaces following, enter all the required address information for the surety: Street Address or P.O. Box, City, State, and Zip Code.

Once completed, review the form for accuracy and completeness. After ensuring all information is correct, the next steps would involve submitting the form to the appropriate court clerk and proceeding with the stipulated legal protocols. This step is crucial, as it effectively communicates your intent to surrender the defendant into custody, necessitating official documentation and adherence to legal procedures. By following these guidelines meticulously, bondsmen can navigate through the process efficiently and in compliance with Alabama state laws.

Common Questions

What is the CR-28 form used for in Alabama?

The CR-28 form in Alabama is an application used by bail bondsmen to surrender a defendant back into the custody of law enforcement. When a surety, or a bail bondsman, no longer wishes to be responsible for a defendant they have previously bailed out, they fill out this form to request the issuance of a Bondsman's Process. This process allows the defendant to be arrested and taken into custody by either the bail bondsman themselves or a designated individual, as authorized by their endorsement on the form.

Who can fill out the CR-28 form?

Only a surety, who is generally a bail bondsman or bail bond agent that has previously posted bail for a defendant, is authorized to fill out the CR-28 form. This form must be filled out by the surety to formally apply to the court for permission to surrender the defendant back to the custody of the sheriff or jailer. It's important that the surety accurately completes the form and provides all required information to avoid any delays or issues in the process.

Where should the CR-28 form be submitted?

The CR-28 form should be submitted to the clerk of the court where the case is being heard. This could be a circuit, district, or municipal court in the State of Alabama. It's essential to submit the form to the correct court jurisdiction as mentioned on the form itself, under the section that identifies the case number and the name of the municipality or county. Ensuring the form is submitted to the right court helps in the timely processing of the request.

What information is required on the CR-28 form?

To complete the CR-28 form, the surety must provide several key pieces of information, including the case number, the name of the court (circuit, district, or municipal) and the municipality or county in Alabama where the case is located. Additionally, the full name of the defendant must be included, along with the surety’s own information, such as their name, street address or P.O. Box, city, state, and zip code. Lastly, the date of the application and the surety's signature are required to formally request the issuance of a Bondsman's Process.

What happens after the CR-28 form is submitted?

After the CR-28 form is submitted, it is reviewed by the clerk of the court to ensure all required information is provided and that the form is completed correctly. If the application is in order, the court will issue a Bondsman's Process, enabling the arrest of the defendant to bring them back into custody. This process can be executed by the bail bondsman themselves or another person they have designated on the form. It is then the responsibility of the surety or their designee to locate and surrender the defendant to the sheriff or jailer as specified by the court's order.

Common mistakes

Completing the CR-28 form in Alabama, which is the Application for Bondsman’s Process, requires attention to detail. Mistakes can delay the process or result in incorrect handling of the situation. To ensure accuracy, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

  1. Incorrect court information: Applicants often mistakenly enter inaccurate court information. The form requires the specific court name and the type of court, whether Circuit, District, or Municipal.
  2. Not providing the full name of the municipality or county: It is crucial to clearly state the full name of the municipality or county to avoid any confusion or processing delays.
  3. Leaving the case number blank: Forgetting to provide the case number can lead to processing errors. This number is essential for tracking and reference purposes.
  4. Omitting the defendant’s full name: The defendant’s full name must be provided to accurately identify the individual in question.
  5. Incomplete surety information: The surety must include their complete address, consisting of street address or P.O. Box, city, state, and ZIP code. Incomplete addresses can lead to miscommunication.
  6. Failure to designate a person for arrest: If the surety wishes for someone else to carry out the arrest, they must specify this by endorsement on the process. Omitting this information can complicate the arrest process.
  7. Unsigned forms: The surety’s signature is mandatory. An unsigned form is considered incomplete and cannot be processed.
  8. Incorrect date of application: Not accurately providing the date of application can affect the timeline and legalities of the request.
  9. Not specifying the desired action: The form is an application to surrender the defendant into custody. Failure to clearly indicate this intention can lead to misunderstandings.
  10. Using outdated forms: Since the form and its requirements may change, using an outdated version can result in rejection. Applicants should ensure they use the most current form available.

Ensuring the CR-28 form is filled out correctly and completely is fundamental to the legal process it supports. Applicants should thoroughly review their application for accuracy and completeness before submission. Overlooking these details can cause significant delays and potentially affect the outcome of the matter at hand. It is advisable for individuals to seek assistance if they are unsure about any part of the application process. This diligent approach can contribute to a smoother and more efficient process for all parties involved.

Documents used along the form

When dealing with the legal system, especially in situations involving bail and bonds, a variety of documents may need to be completed and submitted alongside the CR-28 Alabama form, also known as the Application for Bondsman's Process. These documents are crucial for providing the necessary information and legal authority to process, detain, or release an individual according to the requirements of the law. Understanding these documents can help individuals navigate the legal steps more effectively.

  1. CR-1 Complaint Form: This form initiates a criminal case, detailing the charges against the defendant and the alleged facts.
  2. Bail Bond: A legal agreement that allows a defendant to be released from jail in exchange for money or collateral. It guarantees the defendant's appearance at court.
  3. Power of Attorney for Bail Bond Agent: Authorizes a bail bond agent to act on behalf of the surety, including posting bail and making decisions regarding the bond.
  4. Notice of Bail Bond Forfeiture: Issued by the court when a defendant fails to appear, notifying the surety that the bond amount may be forfeited if the defendant does not return to court.
  5. Defendant's Release on Own Recognizance (O.R. Release): A document that allows a defendant to be released from custody without paying bail, based on a promise to appear at all court hearings.
  6. Application for Criminal Indigent Status: Used if a defendant cannot afford an attorney or court fees, requesting the court to appoint a public defender or waive the fees.
  7. Motion to Set Aside Bail Bond Forfeiture: Filed by the surety or defendant requesting the court to reconsider and possibly reverse a bail bond forfeiture decision.
  8. Indemnity Agreement for Bail Bond: An agreement between the surety and the bail bond agent, ensuring that the surety will cover any losses the bail bond agent might incur if the defendant fails to appear in court.

Successfully navigating the legal processes requires accurate completion and submission of these forms and documents, each playing a unique role in the bail and bonds system. This system ensures that defendants can be released from custody while also guaranteeing their appearance at required court proceedings. Legal professionals and bondsmen can provide further assistance in understanding and completing these documents correctly.

Similar forms

The CR-28 Alabama form, which is an application for a bondsman’s process, shares similarities with other standard legal documents used within the judicial system. These documents serve pivotal roles in ensuring due process and the efficient operation of the justice system. Below are some of these documents and the basis of their resemblance.

  • Notice of Bail Bond Forfeiture: This document, similar to the CR-28 form, is crucial in the bail bonds process. Both documents are integral in cases where bail has been posted, and specific actions need to be taken regarding the bond. The Notice of Bail Bond Forfeiture is typically issued when a defendant fails to appear in court, leading to a forfeiture of the bail bond. The CR-28, conversely, is employed by a surety or bondsman wanting to surrender the defendant into custody, potentially to avoid the forfeiture of the bond. Each of these documents facilitates communication between the court, the bondsman, and law enforcement, ensuring that defendants are properly managed within the legal system.

  • Warrant Application: Similar to the CR-28 form, a Warrant Application is a request submitted to the court, but its purpose is to obtain a warrant for the arrest of an individual. Both documents involve a formal application process to the court and require detailed information about the defendant. The Warrant Application is typically initiated by law enforcement or a victim, seeking to have someone arrested for a specific crime. Meanwhile, the CR-28 form is specifically used by bondsmen or sureties related to the bail bond process, aiming to surrender a defendant back into custody. Despite their different applications, both documents play a role in the broader judicial process of ensuring individuals appear in court as required.

  • Motion to Set Aside Bail Bond Forfeiture: This motion is another document closely related to the CR-28 form in terms of the bail process. It is usually filed by a surety or bondsman after a bail bond forfeiture has been declared, requesting the court to reconsider and set aside the forfeiture. The CR-28 form and the Motion to Set Aside Bail Bond Forfeiture address different stages of dealing with bail bonds and provide mechanisms for bondsmen to manage their risks and responsibilities. While the CR-28 form facilitates a proactive approach by allowing the surrender of the defendant, the Motion to Set Aside Bail Bond Forfeiture offers a reactive legal remedy to challenge bail bond forfeitures. Both documents underscore the complexities of the bail system and highlight the legal avenues available for bondsmen to protect their financial interests.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Form CR-28, an important document in the Alabama court system, there are several dos and don'ts to keep in mind. This form is utilized by bondsmen to legally surrender a defendant into custody. To ensure the process goes smoothly, here are eight crucial pointers:

Do's:
  1. Read instructions carefully before starting to fill out the form. Understanding every section will help in avoiding any mistakes.

  2. Ensure all the information is accurate and up-to-date. Double-check the case number, court name, and other details for accuracy.

  3. Use black ink for filling out the form. This makes the content clear and legible for court officials.

  4. Include the full legal name of the defendant as listed in court records. Ensure it matches exactly to prevent any confusion.

Don'ts:
  1. Do not leave any required fields blank. If a section doesn't apply, mark it as 'N/A' to show it has been consciously addressed.

  2. Avoid using white-out or correction tape on the form. Mistakes should instead be neatly crossed out, and the correct information should be written beside.

  3. Never submit the form without reviewing it first. A quick check can catch and correct mistakes before they become problematic.

  4. Do not forget to sign and date the form. An unsigned form is incomplete and will not be processed.

By adhering to these guidelines, the process of filling out and submitting Form CR-28 can be made more efficient and error-free. It's crucial for bondsmen to understand these points thoroughly to ensure the legal procedures are followed correctly.

Misconceptions

When navigating the legal world of Alabama, especially regarding bail bond processes, understanding the form CR-28 is crucial. However, several misconceptions surround this document which can lead to confusion. Here we'll clear up some of those misunderstandings.

  • Anybody can file the CR-28 form: This is not true. The CR-28 form, otherwise known as the Application for Bondsman’s Process, is specifically designed for use by bail bondsmen. It allows a bondsman to surrender a defendant they previously bailed out, back to the court’s custody. The general public cannot use this form for any other legal actions.

  • The CR-28 is a public document: While court documents are often public record, this misconception isn’t entirely accurate. The CR-28 form involves sensitive information regarding the surety (the person or entity acting as the bail bondsman) and the defendant. Therefore, its accessibility might be limited to protect the parties involved.

  • Filing the CR-28 form releases the bondsman from all responsibilities: Filing this form does indeed allow the bondsman to surrender the defendant back to the court. However, it doesn’t automatically absolve the bondsman of all responsibilities. There could still be financial obligations or other requirements as dictated by the court’s ruling.

  • The CR-28 can be used for any arrest in Alabama: This form is specific to cases where a bail bondsman wants to surrender a defendant. It cannot be used to initiate any arrest by a member of the public or for law enforcement officers to arrest individuals for new crimes. It's a mistake to think this form grants general arrest powers.

Understanding the specific use and limitations of the CR-28 form helps in navigating the legal system more effectively. Always consult with a legal professional to ensure proper procedures are followed.

Key takeaways

The CR-28 form, a crucial document within the Alabama Unified Judicial System, serves a specific purpose in the legal bond process. This analysis aims to demystify its contents and usage through ten key takeaways:

  1. The CR-28 form is officially titled "Application for Bondsman’s Process" in the State of Alabama, signaling its specialized role in the bond system.
  2. It applies within various courts - Circuit, District, or Municipal - indicating its wide applicability across different legal arenas within Alabama.
  3. The form facilitates a surety, typically a bail bondsman, in the process of surrendering a defendant back into custody. This reflects the mechanisms in place for bondsmen to revoke bail.
  4. By completing this form, a surety is formally requesting the issuance of a Bondsman’s Process. This document, therefore, serves as a critical tool for initiating the legal process of surrender.
  5. The form requires detailed identification of both the court where the surrender is to take place and the specific case by its number. This ensures clarity and precision in the judicial process.
  6. It includes a section for the surety to assert their status and intention to surrender the defendant to the sheriff or jailer’s custody, emphasizing the form’s role in facilitating a lawful transfer of custody.
  7. One pivotal aspect is the permission granted to the surety or a designated representative to arrest the defendant at any location within Alabama. This provision highlights the extensive authority given to bondsmen under state law.
  8. The form requires specific personal details from the surety: name, address (including street and P.O. Box), city, state, and zip code. Such information is essential for accountability and communication purposes.
  9. The necessity for the surety to date and sign the application underscores the formal commitment being made. This act binds the surety to the responsibilities and assertions made in the document.
  10. Understanding the legal implications and correct usage of the CR-28 form is imperative for bondsmen operating in Alabama. It underscores the form’s significance in the state’s legal and judicial framework.

In summary, the CR-28 Form is a vital document for bondsmen in the State of Alabama, enabling the lawful surrender of defendants under their bond agreement. Its proper application is crucial for the surety, the defendant, and the judicial system, ensuring the process is carried out within the guiding parameters of law and order.

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