The bail amount is a sum of money set by a judge that allows a person accused of a crime to be released from jail while awaiting trial. This amount is intended to ensure that the accused returns to court for their scheduled hearings. If the person appears as required, the bail is typically refunded, minus any fees. If the accused cannot afford the bail amount, they may seek help from a bail bondsman, who can pay the bail in exchange for a fee. This fee is usually a percentage of the total bail amount and is non-refundable, regardless of the trial's outcome.