A “bond date” in court refers to the scheduled hearing where a judge determines either a defendant is eligible for bond (bail) and, if so, the amount and conditions of that bond. This typically happens after an arrest and initial booking.

Key Aspects of a Bond Date

• Purpose – The court decides if the defendant can be released from custody while awaiting trial and under what conditions.
• Types of Bond – The judge may set different types of bonds, such as:
  • Cash Bond – The full bail amount must be paid in cash.
  • Surety Bond – A bail bondsman pays on behalf of the defendant, typically for a fee.
  • Personal Recognizance (PR) Bond – The defendant is released without paying money but must promise to return for court.
  • Property Bond – A property can be used as collateral.
• Factors Considered – The judge evaluates:
  • Severity of the charges
  • Criminal history
  • Flight risk
  • Ties to the community
  • Risk to public safety
• Possible Outcomes – The judge may:
  • Grant bond with specific conditions
  • Deny bond if the defendant is considered a danger or flight risk
  • Modify an existing bond order

A bond hearing is crucial because it determines whether a defendant remains in jail or can go free while awaiting trial.