Pronunciation: [bˈe͡ɪl bˈɒnd] (IPA) 
Bail bond, which refers to a type of surety bond used to secure a defendant's release from jail, is spelled with the IPA symbols /beɪl bɒnd/. The first syllable, "bail", is pronounced with the diphthong /eɪ/ (as in the word "hay") and the second syllable, "bond", is pronounced with the short o sound /ɒ/ (as in the word "not"). The spelling of this term accurately reflects its standard pronunciation.
A bail bond refers to a legal contract that is entered into between a defendant, their surety or bail bondsman, and the court. It is a financial guarantee used to secure a defendant's release from jail until their court appearance. When a person is charged with a crime and is unable to afford the bail, which is the amount of money set by the court to ensure the defendant's appearance in future proceedings, a bail bond can be utilized. The defendant or their surety pays a percentage, usually around 10% of the total bail amount, to a licensed bail bondsman who acts as the guarantor.
By issuing the bail bond, the bondsman ensures the court that the defendant will appear for their trial or as otherwise required by the court. In the event that the defendant fails to appear, the bail bondsman is then responsible for paying the full amount of the bail to the court. However, if the defendant fulfills all their obligations and appears in court as scheduled, the bail bond is exonerated, and the bondsman's responsibility is discharged.
Bail bonds provide an opportunity for defendants who are unable to afford their bail to avoid prolonged imprisonment before their court date. It also serves as a risk management tool for the court system, ensuring that defendants have a financial incentive to appear for their trial. Bail bonds play a critical role in the criminal justice system by maintaining a balance between individual liberty and public safety while the legal process unfolds.
A written security given for the appearance of a prisoner to take his trial.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "bail bond" originates from the Old French term "baillier" which means "to deliver" or "to place in charge". In medieval times, the concept of bail emerged where a person's release from detention was secured by providing a surety or guarantee in the form of money or property. The term "bail" itself comes from the Old French word "bail", which means "security" or "surety". The word "bond" refers to the written agreement or legal document that serves as evidence of the surety provided for a person's release. Over time, the term "bail bond" came to represent the specific document and process involved in securing a release from custody.
