NCJ Number
25033
Date Published
1974
Length
37 pages
Annotation
EXAMINATION OF THE LEGAL BASIS OF BAIL, THE STATUTORY FRAMEWORK OF THE STATE BAIL SYSTEM, AND THE ACTUAL FUNCTIONING OF THE CONNECTICUT SYSTEM OF BAIL, PLUS RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STATE BAIL RETURN.
Abstract
SEVERAL STUDIES ON THE EFFECT AND COST OF PRETRIAL DETENTION ARE ALSO CITED. RESEARCHERS CONCLUDE THAT THE DISCREPANCIES BETWEEN THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK AND EVERYDAY BAIL PRACTICES 'RAISE SERIOUS QUESTIONS ABOUT THE OPERATION OF THE BAIL SYSTEM AS A WHOLE.' ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS SUGGESTED INCLUDE MAXIMIZING THE NUMBER OF LOWRISK DEFENDANTS RELEASED PRIOR TO TRIAL THROUGH UTILIZATION OF OBJECTIVE RELEASE CRITERIA, AND INSTITUTING FOLLOW-UP PROCEDURES FOR DEFENDANTS RELEASED ON BAIL. PROCEDURES USED BY PILOT RELEASE PROJECTS IN HARTFORD AND NEW HAVEN ARE ALSO CITED. IN ADDITION, ALTERNATIVES FOR PROVIDING PRETRIAL RELEASE FOR DEFENDANTS WHO ARE INELIGIBLE FOR PRESENT PROGRAMS, BUT WOULD APPEAR FOR TRIAL IF GIVEN MINIMAL SUPERVISION ARE RECOMMENDED. THESE INCLUDE CONDITIONAL RELEASE AND THE CREATION OF A PRETRIAL SERVICES AGENCY CHARGED WITH RESPONSIBILITY FOR DEFENDANTS BETWEEN ARREST AND DISPOSITION.