Legal Definitions - stationhouse bail

Stationhouse bail is a type of bail where a sum of money is paid to secure the release of a prisoner from jail. It is also known as cash bail. This type of bail is different from a surety bond, where a third party agrees to pay the bail if the accused fails to appear in court.

For example, if someone is arrested for a minor offense and wants to be released from jail before their trial, they may pay stationhouse bail. The money is held as collateral and returned to the accused if they show up for their court date. If they fail to appear, the money is forfeited.

Stationhouse bail is often criticized for being unfair to low-income individuals who cannot afford to pay the bail amount. This can result in them being held in jail for extended periods of time, even if they are not guilty of the crime they are accused of.