A bail bondsman in California helps individuals who have been arrested to secure their release from jail while awaiting trial. When someone cannot afford to pay the full bail amount set by the court, they can contact a bail bondsman. The bondsman charges a non-refundable fee (usually 10% of the total bail amount) and provides a bond to the court, guaranteeing the defendant's appearance at all required court dates. If the defendant fails to appear, the bondsman is responsible for paying the full bail amount to the court.