Bond Refund

Question: When do I get my bond money back?

Answer: It is very important for a person posting bond money for a defendant to strictly note the notice in the bottom left hand corner of the bail bond form. The notice states:

" I hereby acknowledge that I have posted bail for the defendant named above.  I further understand that the bail may be used to pay costs, attorney's fees, fines, or other purposes authorized by the court, and that if the defendant fails to comply with the conditions of this bail bond, that the court shall enter an order declaring the bail to be forfeited.  I also understand that once the case on which I posted bond has been concluded, any bond remaining may be used to satisfy fines, costs or fees owed by the defendant in other cases."

Upon conclusion of the court case, the Clerk's Office will review the file for any possible refunds.  The Clerk will only process a bond refund after all other financial obligations are met.  Bond refunds will be processed within 10-14 days of the court appearance. Checks will be mailed out to the last known address in the file. Updates to your address may be made with proper identification at the Winnebago County Circuit Clerk’s office room 111.

Pursuant to Illinois Statute (705 ILCS 110 / 1) the Circuit Clerk’s Office is unable to assist in the preparation of documents or give any legal advice.