Bail

Definition

Bail is a sum of money or form of property that is deposited or pledged to a court by or on behalf of a defendant, temporarily released from custody but required to appear at all court proceedings. It serves as an assurance to the court that the defendant will return for trial and other judicial processes.

Related terms

Bond: A bond is an agreement made with a legal promise, often involving money, that acts as bail and ensures the appearance of the accused in court when required.

Defendant: A defendant is an individual, company, or institution sued or accused in a court of law.

Arraignment: An arraignment is a court proceeding in which the charges against a defendant are formally read and the defendant responds by entering a plea