Go Bail Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Go Bail, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Go Bail?

(v) Go Bail is the remittance or deposit of money as security for releases of an accused on bail during the pending of the trial, leading the accused to go on bail.

History and Meaning of Go Bail

Go Bail is a term used in criminal law to refer to the payment of money by a person as security, for the release of an accused on bail during the pending of their trial, leading the accused to go on bail. The idea behind this provision is to secure the attendance of the accused before the court during trial proceedings. It is important to note that when one person goes bail for someone, they undertake to produce the accused in front of the court on the day of the hearing.

This practice of going bail is an age-old process that is still prevalent in modern criminal law. In ancient England, the practice was so prevalent that the English government had to introduce several measures to regulate it. Today, the concept of going bail is an essential part of the criminal justice system, and it helps to maintain the efficiency and effectiveness of the courts.

Examples of Go Bail

  • Bob went bail for his friend Tim, who was arrested for DUI. Tim agreed to appear in court on the given date, and thus, Bob goes bail.
  • A judge may order someone who has been arrested to go on bail. In this case, the person arrested pays a certain amount, which is deposited as security in the court. This security is used to guarantee the appearance of the accused in court.
  • If someone fails to appear in court, the person who went bail for them may be held liable for the default. This liability means paying the entire bail amount.

Legal Terms Similar to Go Bail

  • Bail bond: This term refers to a written promise by the accused or their guarantor, confirming that they would appear in court.
  • Secured bond: Secured bonds refer to bonds secured by some form of collateral or property to ensure that the defendant shows up for their court date.
  • Unsecured bond: An unsecured bond is issued without any collateral or security, and it is only granted if the defendant poses little or no risk of fleeing or skipping court dates.