Bail Bond Glossary
We've put together a helpful glossary of words and terms frequently used in law, courtrooms, and of course, the bail bonds industry. Keep in mind that the precise meaning or applied definition may vary from state to state, and it's possible for a term to have multiple definitions. We welcome your feedback and encourage you to email or chat with us if you have additional questions or would like more information about this compilation of legal jargon you're likely to hear a bail bondsman use.
Court Order
A command or mandatory direction of a judge which is made during a case. Also includes a command of the judge which established courtroom or administrative procedures.
Criminal Defense Lawyer
A criminal defense lawyer is a legal professional who organizes a case and represents someone accused of a crime. Everyone in America, citizen or not, is entitled to legal counsel before questioning can begin.
Defendant
A person required to answer a legal action or suit.
Felony
A serious criminal offense.
I.C.E.
Stands for Releae On Recognizance. See "personal recognizance bond" for more information.
Immigration Hold
A type of detainer placed on noncitizens and/or undocumented immigrants by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials. An immigration allows ICE additional time to make a decision whether or not the arrestee will be taken into federal custody for deportation hearings, even if the arrestee has already posted bail with the local jail or through a bail bondsman.
Incarceration
Imprisonment; confinement in a jail or penitentiary.
Initial Appearance
The procedure by which an arrested defendant is promptly brought before a judicial officer who advises the defendant of the charges against him, his right to counsel, and his first day to appear in court and establishes conditions of pre-trial release. It also includes a probable cause determination on a warrant-less arrest and advice of preliminary hearing in felony cases.
Licensed Bail Agent
A licensed bail agent is a person or company authorized by a governmental regulatory agency to arrange bail for people accused of crimes. Licensing ensures that your bail agent engages is legitimate practices and can be held accountable for any misdoings.
Misdemeanor
A minor criminal offense.