What is a clerk required to do when a bond forfeiture has been declared?

• A. Docket the case for scire facias.
• B. Issue arrest warrants.
• C. Notify the defense.
• D. Cancel the judgment.

Answer: (C)

When bond forfeiture is declared, the key action is to inform the defense that the forfeiture has occurred and a judgment has been entered. This notice is essential so the defendant (and often the surety) can respond, pursue relief such as a motion to set aside or exonerate the forfeiture, or take steps to reinstate the defendant’s status if allowed. The clerk’s duty is to issue this notice and keep accurate records so due process is preserved and any deadlines for relief start running. Other options aren’t immediate clerk duties: docketing for scire facias comes later if the state seeks to revive or enforce the judgment; arrest warrants are typically issued by the court as part of enforcement, not as an initial clerk action; cancelling the judgment would undo the consequence of the forfeiture, which isn’t appropriate.