What does a bond require from an individual?

A bond typically requires an individual to pledge to appear in court. This means that when a person is granted bond, they are essentially guaranteeing that they will return for scheduled court appearances. This commitment serves as a form of assurance to the court that the individual will uphold their responsibilities in the legal process.

This requirement is crucial because it allows individuals to be released from custody while still ensuring that they will fulfill their obligation to attend court hearings. By pledging to appear, the individual is taking responsibility for their legal situation, which forms the basis of the bond agreement.

The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of a bond. Serving time in jail is not a requirement of a bond, and a bond is specifically intended to avoid incarceration while ensuring court attendance. A bond does involve costs, such as fees associated with securing the bond, but it is not simply a fee with no obligations; the individual has legal responsibilities that come with that bond. Finally, while individuals involved in criminal proceedings have the right to legal representation, being granted a bond does not guarantee that legal representation will be provided.