I don't believe defense attorneys get a cut of that action, but it is a significant source of revenue for the government and the bail bonds industry that surrounds every courthouse.
> I don’t believe defense attorneys get a cut of that action,...
What happens is that the “defendant” signs over the cash bail as partial or complete payment for legal services. Bail usually ends up going to the attorney. Attorneys like this as it is one sure source of funds.
I once posted bail for somebody and went down to the courthouse to pick it up after the case was adjudicated - convenient for me as it was only down the block from where I lived (great neighborhood ;-) All the clerks were confused as to how to return it because it was so rare for an individual not forfeiting their money to the system. It was an illuminating experience.