Florida Bail Bonds Practice Exam

Who has the authority to decide on forfeiture within the first 60 days?

1. The judge

2. The respective surety

3. The Clerk of Court

4. The prosecutor

The correct answer is: The Clerk of Court

The authority to decide on forfeiture within the first 60 days is held by the Clerk of Court. This period is critical in the context of bail proceedings, as it allows for the review and determination of whether a bond should be forfeited due to the defendant's failure to appear in court. The Clerk of Court is responsible for maintaining the court's records and ensuring the proper administration of legal processes. During this initial timeframe, the Clerk evaluates the status of the bail bond, the defendant's attendance, and any necessary documentation regarding the case. If the defendant does not appear, the Clerk can initiate the process for forfeiture of the bond. Others in the options may have roles related to the overall legal and judicial process; however, the actual authority to make this forfeiture decision lies specifically with the Clerk, emphasizing their critical administrative duty within the court system.