What is the primary function of bail in the legal process?

The primary function of bail in the legal process is to ensure the defendant's appearance in court. Bail serves as a financial guarantee that a defendant will return for their scheduled court appearances after being released from custody. The concept behind bail is to balance the rights of the defendant with the interest of society in ensuring that individuals accused of crimes do not evade the legal process.

By requiring a certain amount of money or collateral, the court is incentivizing the defendant to appear at all hearings and trials; if they fail to do so, they risk losing the bail amount or collateral posted. This focus on court appearance is crucial, as it helps maintain the integrity of the judicial system and ensures that cases are resolved in a timely manner.