Skip to content

TCA 40-11-310

Giving or procuring legal assistance unlawful

VIOLATIONViolation

What does this charge mean?

It is illegal for a professional bondsman to advise, counsel, or help any defendant in any matter related to criminal charges or their disposition, except regarding the bail contract itself; it is also illegal for a bondsman to hire, pay for, or share fees with a defense attorney in a case where the bondsman is the surety. This prevents bondsmen from controlling legal representation or interfering in defense strategy.

Penalty Details

ClassificationViolation
Penalty SummaryViolation
It is unlawful for any professional bondsman to aid, counsel or advise any person accused of a criminal offense or violation of law, or those purporting to act for or represent the accused in respect of any matter relating or pertaining to the charge pending against the accused or to the disposition or dismissal thereof, except as to matters relating to the contract of suretyship on the bond, bail or similar undertaking, or to the contract relating to the securing and payment of any fine or costs, being negotiated for or posted in the pending case; nor shall any professional bondsman, directly or indirectly, retain, hire or employ, or pay for the services of an attorney at law to aid, counsel, advise or represent any person accused of criminal offense or violation of law, or those purporting to act for or represent the accused, in any case, suit or matter, in which the professional bondsman is surety for those persons, nor divide with or pay to any attorney any part of the compensation received by the bondsman for services as surety of an accused.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026

Quick Facts

VIOLATION
TCA Section40-11-310