Which term describes a bond to ensure the defendant's appearance in court?

The term that describes a bond specifically intended to guarantee that a defendant will appear in court is "appearance bond." This type of bond serves a critical function in the bail process, as it allows a defendant to be released from custody while ensuring that they will return for future court proceedings. The key aspect of an appearance bond is that it directly addresses the obligation of the defendant to show up in court and can be issued either by the defendant or through a bail bond agent on their behalf. Understanding this concept is essential because the appearance bond is a fundamental component of the legal process, balancing the rights of the individual with the needs of the judicial system.