Homonym: bail (Water)
Bail is a legal process that allows a person accused of a crime to be released from jail while awaiting trial. It usually involves paying a certain amount of money to the court, which acts as a guarantee that the person will return for their court dates. If the accused fails to appear, the court keeps the bail money.
The amount of bail can vary based on the severity of the crime, the individual's criminal history, and other factors. In some cases, a judge may decide to release a person on their own recognizance, meaning they don’t have to pay bail but must promise to return for their court hearings.