What is pretrial release?

Pretrial release refers to the process by which an individual charged with a crime is allowed to remain free while awaiting trial, rather than being detained in jail. This release can be granted through various means, such as bail, personal recognizance, or supervised release, depending on the case's specifics and the individual's circumstances. The purpose of pretrial release is to ensure the defendant's rights are upheld while balancing public safety and the integrity of the judicial process. Conditions may be imposed to ensure the defendant appears for court dates and does not pose a risk to the community.