“bail”
This page shows official legal definitions of “bail” from courts and ministries of justice in multiple countries. Definitions are listed in order of reading level to help with both basic understanding and deeper context.
New Zealand
|
The release of a person from custody on the condition that they show up in court when next required and also comply with any other conditions (such as that the person lives at a particular address).
|
||
United States
|
A sum of money or other form of security demanded by the court; (1) in exchange for the release of the accused from custody; and (2) to guarantee his or her later appearance in court. If fails to appear, the bond is forfeited and a bench warrant is generally issued.
|
||
Australia
|
Bail enables an accused person to be released from custody in between the date of being charged and the eventual finalization of the court case. The accused may be required to promise (known as entering into a recognisance) to appear in court and meet other conditions, including that a guarantor (surety) be provided.
|
||
|
United States
|
The release, prior to trial, of a person accused of a crime, under specified conditions designed to assure that person's appearance in court when required. Also, can refer to the amount of bond money posted as a financial condition of pretrial release.
|