Bail and bond are two important concepts in the legal system, especially when someone has been arrested and is awaiting trial. Bail is the amount of money or property that a defendant must provide to the court in order to be released from custody before their trial. It serves as a way to ensure that the defendant will return to court for their trial. If the defendant is unable to pay the entire bail amount, they can use a bail bond, which is a surety bond provided by a bail bondsman. The bondsman pays the bail amount on behalf of the defendant in exchange for a non-refundable fee, usually around 10% of the bail amount.

The process of obtaining bail or bond can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the case, but it generally involves a hearing where a judge will determine the bail amount based on factors such as the severity of the crime, the defendant's criminal history, and the likelihood of the defendant returning to court. In some cases, the defendant may be released on their own recognizance, meaning they are released without having to pay bail but are required to return to court as scheduled. Understanding the bail and bond process is important for anyone who may find themselves or a loved one in legal trouble, as it can greatly affect the outcome of a case and the defendant's freedom.