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Simple English definitions for legal terms
release on recognizance
Read a random definition: special pleading
A quick definition of release on recognizance:
Release on recognizance is when someone who has been arrested is allowed to leave jail before their trial without having to pay money or provide a surety. Instead, they promise in writing to come back to court on a later date. This is also called release on own recognizance. Recognizance is a legal term that means a promise to do something or follow certain conditions, like showing up for court or paying a debt. It can also refer to a bail bond that guarantees a defendant's return to court. The person who promises to do something is called the recognizor, and the person who benefits from the promise is called the recognizee.
A more thorough explanation:
Release on recognizance is when an arrested person is allowed to go free before their trial without having to pay bail or provide a surety. Instead, they promise in writing to appear in court on a later date.
For example, if someone is arrested for a minor offense like a traffic violation, they may be released on their own recognizance. This means they can go home and don't have to pay any money to be released from jail. They just have to promise to show up in court on the date of their trial.
Release on recognizance is also known as ROR or release on own recognizance. It is a way to reduce the number of people in jail while they wait for their trial. It is usually only granted to people who are not considered a flight risk or a danger to the community.