What's an I-bond or personal recognizance bond? And why am I out on bond at all if I was never arrested?
An I-bond, also known as an "individual bond," and a personal recognizance bond (PR bond) are both types of bonds that allow an individual to be released from custody while awaiting trial without the need to pay bail or post a financial surety.
I-Bond: An I-bond is a type of bond where the defendant is released based on their signature and promise to appear in court for scheduled hearings. No monetary deposit or collateral is required for an I-bond. It is essentially a personal recognizance bond.
Personal Recognizance (PR) Bond: A PR bond is similar to an I-bond. It is a release from custody based on the defendant's personal recognizance, meaning they are released on their promise to appear in court without the need for posting bail or collateral. The court assesses the individual's risk factors, such as their ties to the community, criminal history, flight risk, and the seriousness of the charges, to determine if a PR bond is appropriate.
Regarding being out on bond without being arrested, it's important to note that being released on bond does not necessarily mean that you were never arrested. An arrest typically occurs when a person is taken into custody by law enforcement based on probable cause that they have committed a crime. However, in certain situations, such as low-level offenses or nonviolent crimes, law enforcement or the court may issue a summons or notice to appear instead of making a physical arrest. This means that you are not taken into custody at that moment, but you are still required to appear in court to address the charges.
Being out on bond means that you have been released from custody pending trial or other court proceedings. It is a way to balance the principles of due process and the presumption of innocence with the need to ensure a defendant's appearance in court.
It's important to consult with an attorney who can provide specific guidance based on the details of your situation. They can explain the bond process, evaluate your legal options, and represent your interests throughout the legal proceedings.
