Certain terms used in bail practice have now acquired statutory definitions. G. S. 15A-531 says that the following definitions apply unless the context clearly requires otherwise:
A. Bail Bond. An undertaking by the principal to appear in court as required upon penalty of forfeiting bail to the State of North Carolina in a stated amount. Bail bonds include an unsecured appearance bond, an appearance bond secured by a cash deposit of the full amount of the bond, an appearance bond secured by a mortgage pursuant to G. S. 109-25, and an appearance bond secured by at least one solvent surety. A bail bond signed by any surety as defined in G.S. 15A-531 (8) (a) and (b) is the same as a cash deposit, except in child support cases.B.Obligor. A principal or a surety on a bail bond.C.Principal. A defendant or material witness obligated to appear in court as required upon penalty of forfeiting bail under a bail bond.D.Surety. One who, with the principal, is liable for the amount of the bail bond upon forfeiture of bail.E. Judicial Official. Includes Magistrates, District Court Judges, and Superior Court Judges and, if Clerks are empowered to set conditions of release, the Clerk, Assistant Clerks and Deputy Clerks of Superior Court.Adopted September 25, 2023, effective 10/1/2023.