Bailsman: meaning, definitions and examples

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bailsman

 

[ ˈbeɪlzmən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

legal terminology

A bailsman is a person or entity that provides bail for a defendant in a legal proceeding, ensuring that the defendant will appear in court as required. Typically, the bailsman receives a fee for this service, which is usually a percentage of the bail amount. If the defendant does not appear in court, the bailsman may be responsible for the full bail amount and may seek recovery from the defendant. This role is crucial in the bail system, allowing defendants to remain free while awaiting their trial.

Synonyms

bail agent, bondman, surety

Examples of usage

  • The bailsman helped secure his release from jail.
  • She decided to become a bailsman after years of working in the legal field.
  • The bailsman requires collateral before agreeing to cover the bail.
  • Finding a reputable bailsman can be challenging at times.

Translations

Translations of the word "bailsman" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fiador

🇮🇳 जमानती

🇩🇪 Bürge

🇮🇩 penjamin

🇺🇦 поручитель

🇵🇱 poręczyciel

🇯🇵 保証人

🇫🇷 caution

🇪🇸 fiador

🇹🇷 teminatçı

🇰🇷 보증인

🇸🇦 كفيل

🇨🇿 ručitel

🇸🇰 ručiteľ

🇨🇳 担保人

🇸🇮 jamstvo

🇮🇸 gátta

🇰🇿 кепіл

🇬🇪 კომპენსატორი

🇦🇿 zamin

🇲🇽 fiador

Etymology

The term 'bailsman' is derived from the word 'bail,' which has its roots in the Old French word 'bailer,' meaning 'to deliver' or 'to hand over.' The concept of bail dates back to the Middle Ages when individuals accused of crimes could be freed from custody by providing a surety or guarantee of their appearance in court. A bailsman is an integral part of this system, acting as the intermediary who accepts responsibility for ensuring the accused returns to face trial. The role has evolved over time, reflecting changes in the legal framework and societal attitudes towards justice and the right to pretrial release. The use of professional bailsman services emerged in the 19th century, particularly in the United States, as the legal system began to recognize the importance of allowing individuals to secure their release from custody while awaiting trial.