The most common way to be released from jail prior to the time of the trial is by posting bail.
Some people choose to post a cash bond in return for temporary release.
This bond is advanced by the defendant, or by an acquaintance or a relative of the defendant, and it consists of the total bond amount requested. A popular option available to those who do not have enough money to pay the bond, or who do not wish to advance their own money, is the use of the services of a bail agent. He or she is a business person who will advance bail in return for a fee usually equal to ten percent of the bail amount. The bail agent will often require additional collateral. Other release alternatives include recognizance programs, population cap release programs, and home confinement.