Don Johnson Bonding Co. Inc. v. State of Georgia

McFADDEN, Presiding Judge.

Don Johnson Bonding Company, Inc. appeals from final judgments on two criminal appearance bond forfeitures. In both cases, Don Johnson Bonding, the surety on the bonds, relies on language in OCGA § 17-6-71 (a) that directs trial courts to sign orders forfeiting bonds on the same day that the defendant fails to appear in court. We disagree. Because that language is directory, we affirm.

In January 2015 Anthony Gil Gonzalez was arrested for disorderly conduct and simple battery. Don Johnson Bonding posted a bond to secure his appearance. On January 21, 2016, the trial…