Bail

Also known as: Bond, Pretrial Release

In one sentence

Money or property pledged to secure a defendant's release before trial.

Plain English

Bail is a financial arrangement that allows you to stay out of jail while your case is pending. You (or someone on your behalf) give money or property to the court as a promise that you'll show up for trial. If you appear as required, the bail is returned; if you don't show up, you forfeit it and may face additional charges.

Ad slot

Example

Marcus was arrested and held in custody. At his arraignment, the judge set bail at $10,000. His mother posted the full amount with the court, and Marcus was released. When his trial concluded, the $10,000 was returned to his mother.

Used in a sentence

“The judge set bail at $5,000, which the defendant's family paid to secure his release.”

Related terms

Arraignment

A defendant's first court appearance to hear charges and enter a plea.

bond forfeiture

Loss of bail money when a defendant fails to appear in court as required.

dangerousness

A person's likelihood of committing future crimes or harming others, used in bail and sentencing decisions.

Stand Your Ground

A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.

Castle Doctrine

A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.

Expungement

A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.

Felony

A serious crime punishable by more than one year in prison or death.

Misdemeanor

A less serious crime punishable by up to one year in jail and/or fines.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.