If you are arrested for a crime, you will be given a bail bond hearing. Bail is determined by a judge based on your past criminal history, the seriousness of the crime, and if you are considered a danger to the community.
If you cannot pay bail, you are sent back to jail to await trial. You cannot get out to go to work or do anything else. In order to pay bail, most people must purchase a bail bond.
The popular YouTube channel Kyle Talks Money looks at how bail bonds work.
A bail bond is a type of loan you have with a bail bond company. It pays your bail to the court so you can get out, then you pay the company for the loan. You wind up paying far more for a bail bond than just the amount of bail. Companies tack on fees and other charges. This is how they make money. They also make sure you show up for court dates.
If you do not show up for a court date, the court sets up a forfeiture hearing. A warrant for your arrest will be issued. The bail bond company is then out of money. They have the right to arrest you as if they were police. They will also sue you for the amount of the bail bond.
