The bail system in the US is critical to the criminal justice system. Based on the severity of a crime, a bail amount may be set. This is a sum of money, which if paid, allows an accused citizen to be released from jail while he or she prepares a defense and attends court while maintaining their daily lives. In many criminal cases, a bail bonds company that represents the defendant may post bail on his or her behalf. The bail agent is then responsible for guaranteeing the person's appearance in court.