When someone is suspected of a crime, and arrested, they are taken to jail for booking,, mug shots, fingerprinting, etc… After booking, they have to await their day in court. Bail allows that person to await that day at home, continuing their normal lives, instead of spending that time waiting in jail.
Bail is set to ensure that the accused will be at all required court appearances. Bail is NOT a form of punishment of the accused, it is only a financial incentive to return to court as required. If the defendant shows up at all court dates, then the bail will be exonerated once the case has been closed, and any collateral used to secure the bail bond is returned.
© 2015 ABC Bail Bonds.