Texas Appellate Law Podcast Supersedeas Bonds in the Real World: Timing, Collateral, and Cost | Arturo Ayala
Dec 24, 2025
Arturo Ayala, Vice President of the Court Surety Bond Agency, shares his expertise on the intricacies of supersedeas bonds. He discusses the importance of timing in securing a bond post-verdict and outlines how underwriting is akin to banking. Arturo emphasizes evaluating collateral like real estate and shares tips on estimating costs and premiums. He also warns against delaying the bond process and explains the differences between federal and Texas practices regarding premium recoverability. His insights offer essential guidance for appellate lawyers navigating complex bond situations.
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Start The Bond Process Early
- Do contact a surety agent as soon as you suspect an adverse verdict so you can learn underwriting, timing, collateral, and estimated costs.
- Don't wait until the judgment is entered because starting early avoids last-minute hurdles and delays.
Bonds Are Credit Decisions
- Underwriting for supersedeas bonds is essentially credit underwriting and treats the bond as a pure financial guarantee.
- Sureties focus on the judgment debtor's liquidity and ability to pay, not the merits of the appeal.
Compare Collateral Options Early
- Explore all collateral types: cash, irrevocable letter of credit, real estate, life insurance cash value, or brokerage accounts.
- Pick collateral based on timing, client preference, and how long each asset takes to post.