What is the purpose of a ne exeat bond?

A ne exeat bond serves the specific purpose of ensuring that a defendant remains within the jurisdiction, typically the state, during the pendency of legal proceedings. The term "ne exeat" is derived from Latin, meaning "that he not depart." By posting this type of bond, a defendant agrees to stay put and not leave the designated area until the court resolves the case. This is particularly important in situations where a defendant might be tempted to flee to avoid legal repercussions, as it allows the court to maintain jurisdiction over the defendant's case.

This type of bond is most often utilized in civil matters, such as family law cases or disputes involving significant assets, where the potential for flight could impede the legal process. The mechanism of a ne exeat bond is designed to provide security for the plaintiff, ensuring that they have a means of recourse should the defendant attempt to evade court obligations.

While other options pertain to different legal concepts, they do not accurately reflect the primary function of a ne exeat bond, which is fundamentally about maintaining the defendant's presence within the jurisdiction.