Bail support is defined primarily by the Bail Act of 1976. This legislation gives courts the power to deprive individuals of their liberty at a time when they are presumed to be innocent of any offense. Under the act, a person charged with a criminal offense has a right to bail unless the court believes there are substantial exceptions for granting bail. Considerations that may influence decisions about whether bail conditions or bail support may be appropriate are identified. A working definition of bail support is presented that includes the provision of services designed to facilitate the granting of bail where bail would otherwise be denied. Key points in the framework for bail support are listed that focus on planning for bail support services by senior managers in probation and social services and the need to match the right defendant to the right resources.