# What is the difference between bail and a bail bond? ![bonding company Tennessee](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/rJ34bvq1ke.jpg) When someone is arrested, two common terms often come up: bail and bail bond. While these terms are frequently used interchangeably, they actually refer to two different aspects of the process that allows an accused person to be released from custody while awaiting trial. Understanding the difference between bail and a bail bond is crucial if you or a loved one ever face legal issues [**Bail Bonds Services in Springfield TN**](https://onecallbailbondingtennessee.com/bail-bonds-in-springfield-tn/) Let’s break down each term and highlight how they differ. ## What is Bail? Bail is a sum of money that a court requires a defendant to pay in order to be released from jail before their trial. The court sets the bail amount based on various factors, including the severity of the alleged crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and the likelihood that the defendant will return for court appearances. The purpose of bail is to ensure that the defendant will attend all future court dates. If the defendant appears as required, the bail amount is returned, regardless of whether they are found guilty or not guilty. However, if the defendant fails to show up, the court keeps the bail and issues a warrant for the defendant's arrest. ## What is a Bail Bond? A bail bond is an agreement made through a bail bondsman or bail bond company that allows a defendant to be released from jail without having to pay the full amount of bail upfront. When the bail is set at a large sum, many defendants cannot afford to pay it out of pocket. This is where a bail bond comes in. ## When Should You Use Bail vs. a Bail Bond? Whether to pay bail directly or to use a bail bond often comes down to finances. If you or your family can afford to pay the full bail amount, this option is ideal because you will get the money back once the case is over, assuming all court appearances are met. However, if the bail amount is too high, a bail bond allows for the defendant’s release by paying a smaller, non-refundable fee to a bail bondsman. In cases where the bail amount is significant, such as for felony charges, most people opt for a bail bond due to the high upfront cost of paying bail in full. ### Final Thoughts The primary difference between bail and a bail bond lies in how the financial responsibility is managed. [**One call bail Bonds Bail**](https://onecallbailbondingtennessee.com/) requires the full amount to be paid upfront and can be refunded, while a bail bond involves paying a non-refundable fee to a bondsman who takes on the financial liability of ensuring the defendant appears in court.