What does it mean when a judge releases a defendant on Personal Recognizance?

When a judge releases a defendant on personal recognizance (PR), it means that the defendant is allowed to leave custody without having to pay bail, based on their promise to appear in court for future hearings. This decision is often made when the judge believes the defendant poses a low flight risk and is likely to comply with court orders. PR releases can help individuals avoid the financial burden of bail while ensuring they remain accountable to the judicial process.