The Difference Between Bail And Bail Bonds

“Bail Bonds” and “bail” are used interchangeably by many people. Although they are both important features of the judicial process relating to the release of an accused from jail, they mean very different things.

Bail, which is usually set by a judge at a bail hearing, is something of value provided to the court in exchange for the release of a criminal defendant from jail. Bail allows the defendant to be free from incarceration during the criminal trial proceedings. If the accused does not appear at all scheduled court appointments, the bail may be forfeited to the court. If the defendant fulfills their obligation to appear in front of the court, the bail will be returned at the conclusion of the trial, regardless of a guilty or innocent verdict. By providing the court with bail, the defendant is supposed to have an incentive to appear as they are supposed to.

In some cases, defendants can not or do not want to post the entire bail amount themselves. Bail bondsmen are available to assist defendants in this situation. They will put forth a bail bond on behalf of an accused. However, the bail bond is not the entire bail amount. It is a smaller amount that promises to the court the full bail amount if the defendant does not appear as ordered. If the defendant does appear as scheduled, the bail bond will be returned to the bail bondsman.

The purpose of bail is really two fold. Primarily, it allows an innocent person to avoid needlessly being incarcerated while awaiting their trial. Additionally, bail gives the defendant time and freedom to prepare their defense.

The judicial system relies on bail as an important piece of the puzzle. As such, bail bondsmen are a vital element in ensuring the system works properly.

Learn more about Las Vegas bail bonds. Stop by Sandra Ryder’s site where you can find out all about what a Las Vegas bail bondsman can do for you.