What is a cash bond in Ohio?

• A. A bond posted with a credit card
• B. A bond where only collateral is posted
• C. A bond backed by a third-party surety
• D. A bond where the defendant or indemnitor pays cash to the court or clerk; funds are held until the bond is exonerated or forfeiture occurs

Answer: (D)

In Ohio, a cash bond means the defendant or someone acting for them pays the full bail amount in cash to the court or clerk, and the money is held by the court as security for the defendant’s appearance. If the defendant shows up for all required court dates and the case concludes without violations, the cash bond is exonerated and the funds are returned to the payer (subject to any fees or costs). If the defendant fails to appear or violates release conditions, the bond is forfeited and the cash may be kept by the court to satisfy the bail obligation. This form of bond is distinct from payments made with a credit card, from posting collateral, or from a third-party surety, because it involves cash paid directly to the court and held as the sole security.