To the parents who would just pay the fine, when do they learn that they have to do things for themselves?

Depends on the child and situation, and if this is the first time the child has been in legal trouble.

DH and I have discussed this before. We would in fact bail them out the FIRST time they get arrested. After that first time, we would have a serious talk about whatever it is they were arrested for and explain to them how things would be different in the future if they get arrested again. And stand firm on what we say. Any time after that they obviously didn't learn the first time and they will have to deal with whatever consequences that come with their decisions because they obviously didn't learn the first go-around.

Yes, I would.

I'd have to know the whole situation, but I think 21 is old enough to have learned better. Most likely, I'd make them face the consequences on their own at that age.

it really depends on how the judge is..if the judge is a dick and wants the money right there in the court room or else jail then yes..,ok hell i would probly pay cause lets say they get a week which isnt bad but they could end up losing there job..and to me its just weed..

Quoting Vodka Knockers:" *I am not the person being referenced to, before anyone says anything.* So, say your child is 21. Your ... [snip!] ... why? I'm just curious as to what different people to do, how they'd approach it. And literally, I swear it's not me."

Assuming the this wasnt the umpteenth time i literally or figuratively bailed them out, I'd pay.
BUT, there would be lots of strings attached.
Realizing the the job market is difficult, they'd be doing MOST of the household work as well as other projects as "room and board."
They would have to pay back any fees i generously paid.
And, I'd probably make sure they were doing something productive with theit time like volunteering and building their non-slacker reusme.

I'd do it with an agreement that they pay me back.