 ■ BAIL AND RELEASE IN COLORADO
1. When Can I Be Released?
If, during the questioning and before a charge is filed, the police are convinced that you have not committed a crime, they will usually release you. Your arrest may then be considered a detention and not be recorded as an arrest.
2. What Happens At An Arraignment?
You have a right to be arraigned without unnecessary delay. At the arraignment, you will appear before a judge who will tell you officially of the charges against you. An attorney may be appointed for you if you can't afford one, and the bail can be raised or lowered depending on the circumstances of the case. You also can ask to be released on a Personal Recognizance bond (P.R. bond), even if bail was previously set.
3. What Is Bail And How Is It Set?
Bail is allowed in virtually all cases, including felonies. The amount of bail is set by the judge. Its sole legal purpose is to guarantee the defendant's appearance in court for later proceedings.
Your bond amount is set by statute and can be changed at a hearing. Appear at all hearings. If you have any doubt, go to Court so a new warrant is not issued for your arrest for failing to appear.
If you fail to appear, your bail will be forfeited and a new warrant will be issued for your arrest.
The judge is required to consider not only the seriousness of the offense charged against the defendant, but also the defendant's circumstances, such as community ties. |
