Bail is set as a financial incentive to ensure a person charged with a crime attends all of their court dates if they're let out of custody. When someone pays bail to the court clerk, it's held until the defendant's case comes to a close - regardless of whether they're found guilty or not. After that, the money (minus any relevant court fees) is returned by the courts. In some cases, a person who is unable to afford bail might have to remain in custody until their court case is resolved. If b...