Bail (court bail) and sureties

Being released by a court while your case continues, on a promise to come back, sometimes with conditions such as a curfew or tag.

Court bail means a defendant is released between court hearings instead of being held in custody, and must return to court when required. Under the Bail Act 1976, most unconvicted defendants have a right to bail, but the court can refuse it if there are substantial grounds to believe you would fail to attend, commit offences while on bail, or interfere with witnesses. The court can impose conditions, such as living at an address, a curfew with an electronic tag, reporting to a police station, not contacting certain people or surrendering a passport. It can also require a surety: someone who promises to pay a sum of money if you do not attend. Failing to attend court without a reasonable excuse is a separate offence. Breaking a condition is not itself an offence, but you can be arrested and the court may then remand you in custody.

Checked as at 25 September 2026. General information only, not legal advice.