Glossary
What is Bail and Bond?
Money or a written promise to pay that lets a person leave jail before trial, as a guarantee they will return to court.
Bail is money a person pays as a guarantee they will come back to court. A judge sets the amount after weighing things like flight risk, the alleged offense and community safety. Bail can come with conditions, such as no contact with a certain person.
A bail bond is a written agreement to pay the court if the person does not meet the terms of release. Many people cannot afford bail and turn to a bail bondsman, who puts up the money and promises the court the person will appear.
If the person misses court, the court may keep the money. Rules vary by state, so a lawyer is the best person to explain the options.
Read more
- Jail Commissary vs. Prison Commissary: What Families Should Know
- How to Send Money to Someone in Jail