noun A security deposit or payment made to release someone from imprisonment
verb To release or secure the release of someone from imprisonment by providing bail
In legal terms, bail refers to the temporary release of an accused person awaiting trial, sometimes with a monetary deposit as a guarantee of their appearance in court.
In finance, bail can refer to the act of providing money to secure the release of a person or property from legal custody.
In maritime law, bail refers to the temporary transfer of possession of goods from one person to another for a specific purpose, with the goods being returned after that purpose is fulfilled.
In aviation, bail refers to the process of removing water from an aircraft's fuselage after a water landing to prevent sinking.
In animal husbandry, bail can refer to a feeding area for livestock, typically surrounded by a barrier to control access to food.
Bail is commonly used by lawyers to secure the release of their clients from custody while awaiting trial. They may negotiate the terms of bail with the court and ensure that their clients comply with the conditions set forth.
Bail bondsmen work in the bail industry and provide surety bonds to individuals who cannot afford to pay their bail in full. They charge a fee, usually a percentage of the total bail amount, in exchange for posting the bond and guaranteeing the defendant's appearance in court.
Judges set bail amounts based on various factors, including the severity of the crime, the defendant's criminal history, and the likelihood of them appearing in court. They have the authority to grant or deny bail and may impose conditions on the defendant's release.
Police officers may arrest individuals and bring them into custody, where they are typically held until bail is posted or a court hearing is scheduled. They are responsible for informing the arrested person of their rights and ensuring that they are treated fairly throughout the process.