Bailable

/ˈbeɪləbəl/ adjective

Definition

Able to be released from custody by paying bail; describing a person or offense that qualifies for bail.

Etymology

From bail (security money paid for release) + -able (capable of being); bail itself comes from Old French bailler (to deliver or hand over).

Kelly Says

The bail system has deep historical roots—it's actually supposed to be a way to get poor people out of jail temporarily, but it's become a way to keep them trapped, since they can't afford bail while wealthy defendants walk free.

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