What is the primary purpose of bail in the criminal justice system?

The primary purpose of bail in the criminal justice system is to ensure a defendant's appearance in court. When a defendant is granted bail, it allows them to be released from custody while they await trial, under the condition that they will return for all scheduled court appearances. This system supports the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, allowing individuals to maintain their freedom and continue their lives while the legal process unfolds.

Furthermore, bail is often set at an amount that reflects the severity of the charges and the perceived flight risk of the defendant, thereby incentivizing them to appear in court. If a defendant fails to comply with this requirement, they forfeit the bail amount and may face additional legal consequences, along with the possibility of arrest.

This concept does not relate to punishing the defendant before trial, providing financial assistance, or guaranteeing a speedy trial, as those aspects focus on different aspects of the legal process and the rights of the accused.