Can I Leave Florida While Out On Bond? Yes! Here’s How You Can Usually Do It Without Getting In Trouble

One of the most frequently asked questions we get asked at BailOption is, “Can I leave Florida while out on bond?”

The short answer is yes you can. However, it is a bit complicated and will you need permission from the court to do so. 

Namely, if you plan on traveling internationally. This is because leaving the country makes it more difficult for law enforcement to keep track of you. It is also almost impossible for your bail bondsman to ensure you show up for your court date.

You have a few options to be able to leave the state.

Option 1: Get Permission from the Court

Your first option to leave the state is to get permission from the court. You can do this by filing a motion with the court. You need to provide the court with a good reason for why you need to leave. The judge will then say yes or no. If granted permission, you must follow any conditions the judge imposes. This includes checking in with a pretrial services officer or wearing an electronic monitoring device. 

Option 2: Modify Your Bond Conditions 

You can also file a motion with the court. You need to ask the court to change your bond conditions in your motion so you can leave Florida. If you cannot get permission from the court your second option is to ask the court to modify your bond conditions. The judge will then decide whether or not to grant your request.

You must also follow any conditions the judge imposes assuming your request is granted. Again, you may be required to check in with a pretrial services officer or wear a monitoring device. 

Can I Travel Internationally While Out On Bond?

You will definitely need permission from the court if you want to travel outside of the United States while on bond.

This is because leaving the country makes it more difficult for law enforcement to keep track of you. It is also almost impossible for your bail bondsman to ensure you show up for your court date.

The court will order you follow a number of conditions for you to travel internationally. You will need to follow whatever conditions that the judge imposes to the letter.

If you fail to do so, the judge could lock you up upon your return to Florida. 

Again, you will need to check in with a pretrial services officer before you leave. 

There are a Few Reasons Why a Judge May Grant Permission To Leave Florida Temporarily:

• You have a job requiring you to travel outside the state or country.
• You must take care of a sick family member living out of state.
• You are scheduled to testify in a trial that is taking place in another state.
• You are going to school out of state and must return for classes.
• You need to attend a funeral for a family member or close friend.

To name a few

If you have questions about whether or not you are allowed to leave Florida while on bond, you should speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney. A defense attorney can review your case and help you determine what options are available to you.

What happens if I leave Florida without permission while on bond?

You will be violating the terms of your bond if you leave without permission. The court could revoke your bond and you you could be taken into custody. As a result, the court could order you to be held in jail until your next court date.

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