How does a bail bond work?

A bail bond is a financial arrangement made to ensure a defendant's release from jail while awaiting trial. When someone is arrested, a bail amount is set by the court, which needs to be paid in order to secure their release. However, the full bail amount can be difficult for many people to pay. This is where a bail bond comes in. A bail bondsman works with the defendant's family or friends, charging a predetermined fee, typically a percentage of the total bail amount. The bondsman then posts the full bail amount, allowing the defendant to be released. The fee paid to the bondsman is non-refundable and serves as their profit. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bondsman may seek the assistance of a bounty hunter to locate and apprehend the defendant. Overall, a bail bond is a way to ensure a defendant's freedom until their trial at a more affordable cost.