Bail is a sum of money that a judge determines and requires the arrested person to pay in order to be released from jail. When bail is posted, the defendant is expected and required to come back to court for their trial. If the defendant does not show up to their trial, their bail is reversed and a warrant is issued for their arrest. 

Bail is determined by a number of factors, specifically the severity of the crime, and the likelihood of Defendant being a flight risk.

If the judge believes the defendant will flee rather than return for their court date, or if they have a criminal record, whether the arrested person is considered to be a danger to the community, and specific state laws and guidelines all determine whether bail can be granted to a Defendant pending a plea and sentencing.