If you are under arrest for a criminal charge, it is important that you understand the bail process. Knowing your rights when it comes to bail, as well as the consequences if you violate it, is part of protecting yourself when preparing for a trial.
Following an arrest, you will be under detainment until the date of your court hearing. Alternatively, you can opt for release on bail so that you may enjoy limited freedoms as you prepare your criminal defense case.
What is bail?
The court may choose to release a suspect on bail pending their public trial. The authorities will not consider bail if the suspect is likely to cause harm or commit additional crimes upon release. There are also restrictions the suspect must adhere to while on bail, and there is a requirement for a monetary bond of varying amounts depending on the severity of the charge as outlined in the Mississippi rules of criminal procedure.
What happens if you violate bail?
Bail conditions typically include a requirement to remain in a certain geographical area or other restrictions as deemed necessary by the court. Violating these conditions will result in you returning to jail, with the possibility of losing your right to bail. Even if you retain your right to bail, you will likely incur harsher restrictions with a higher bond requirement to ensure you make your court appearance.
The bail process exists to allow criminal suspects a normal quality of life until such time as the court rules them guilty of the crime in question. Violating bail is an act of bad faith that the judicial system takes very seriously.
