Q: Can the defendant get out of jail while awaiting trial?

Many suspects get out of jail while awaiting trial because they are able to post bail bond. Bail is cash or a security bond provided to the court to assure the defendant shows up at the next scheduled hearing. If he doesn’t show up, whoever posted the money loses it. The amount of the bond is set by the court and may vary depending upon many factors, including the seriousness of the crime, the likelihood that the defendant will try to flee, or the risk of harm the defendant presents to the victim or the community. All defendants are entitled to have a bond set unless the prosecutor can show the court that the defendant poses a danger to a crime victim, the community, or any other person. Please be sure our office is aware of any danger the defendant poses to you or to anyone else. We will do the best we can to keep that person in custody.