What type of bond allows a defendant to be released without collateral, though with an obligation to pay if they miss court?

An unsecured bond is a type of bond that allows a defendant to be released from custody without having to provide collateral upfront. Instead, the defendant makes a promise to pay a specified amount if they fail to appear in court as required. This type of bond relies on the defendant's commitment to show up for their court dates, effectively trusting that they will not abscond.

In contrast, a secured bond would require collateral to be deposited, while a surety bond involves a third party who agrees to pay the bond amount if the defendant fails to appear. A credit bond, on the other hand, would typically involve a financial assessment or creditworthiness, further distinguishing it from the straightforward nature of an unsecured bond. Thus, the concept of an unsecured bond is primarily about the promise to pay without requiring immediate financial backing, which suits the described scenario well.