How long does a bondsman have to file the notice of surrender with the court clerk?

• A. 1 day
• B. 5 days
• C. 7 days
• D. 3 days

Answer: (D)

Timeliness of surrender notice is what this item tests. Once a bondsman takes custody or surrenders a defendant, the law requires filing a notice of surrender with the court clerk within three days. This keeps the court informed promptly and closes the bondsman’s obligation on that bond, allowing the defendant to be returned to custody and the bond to be adjusted or canceled as needed. If the surrender notice isn’t filed within the three-day window, the bond may be forfeited or penalties could apply, since timely action helps the court manage appearances and custody. The other timeframes don’t fit because they either cut the window too short or extend it beyond what the statute specifies.