If you’ve been arrested, think of bail / bond as your financial commitment to show up for court. A judge determines the amount of bail / bond based on the alleged crime, your danger to the community, and whether they deem you as a flight risk. So your bail / bond money (or other property) is deposited with the clerk of court to ensure your appearance at a future court date. If you return to court, as required, then your bail will be returned at the end of the case (even if you are ultimately convicted). However, if you do not show up at court or otherwise violate your bail / bond conditions, the bail / bond can be forfeited.