What is a bond hearing?

A bond hearing is held after the defendant is arrested. The judge determines whether the defendant is a danger to society and/or whether he/she will return to court for future court dates. The more serious the charge the higher the bond usually is. Once the bond amount is set, the defendant can post 10% to be released from custody. For example, a $10,000 bond would require posting $1,000 to be released. The court can impose specific conditions be placed such as a curfew, no contact with the victim, etc. Although a bond is usually set in the early stages of the criminal case, the defense can ask for a bond review or modification of the bond on future court dates.

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1. How does a criminal charge get filed?
2. What do I do if I am a victim of a crime?
3. What is a felony?
4. What is the difference between a criminal case and a civil case?
5. Are defendants required to attend all court dates?
6. Are crime victim(s) or witnesses required to go to all court dates?
7. Can victims attend court dates?
8. What do I do if I receive a subpoena to testify?
9. What time does court start?
10. Can the State’s Attorney help me collect child support?
11. What is a bond hearing?
12. How can I find out if the defendant is in custody?
13. Who determines the bond amount?
14. What should I do if the defendant violates bond by contacting me?
15. What is a domestic order of protection?
16. Who is eligible for a domestic order of protection?
17. What do I do if my domestic order of protection is violated?
18. Can I drop charges against the defendant/offender?