Bail is a legal term that refers to the temporary release of a person who has been arrested, usually in exchange for money or a promise to appear in court. The purpose of bail is to ensure that the accused returns for their court hearings while allowing them to remain free until their trial. The amount of bail is typically set by a judge based on the severity of the crime and the individual's flight risk. If a person cannot afford the bail amount, they may seek help from a bail bondsman, who can provide the funds in exchange for a fee. If the accused fails to appear in court, the bail can be forfeited, and a warrant may be issued for their arrest. Bail serves as a way to balance the rights of the accused with the interests of the legal system.