How Does Bail Work?

The most common question usually asked by those attempting to hire a bail bondsman for the first time is “How does bail work?” When someone gets arrested, a bail bond may be posted to guarantee their release from jail while awaiting trial. The bail amount is determined by the court. Usually, the crime itself has a direct affect on the bail amount. The more serious the offense, the higher the bail. Since bail is typically set at an amount which is far more than the average American can afford, defendant’s are usually financial incapable of coming up with the full bail amount. This leaves the defendant with two options. They can remain in jail until the trial or they can hire a bail bondsman who will provide the jail with a bail bond which is equivalent to the full bail amount.