Pretrial Programs Push No Bail Release

The topic of money bails is a controversial issue as many contend that it allows those who have money to purchase their freedom, while those who are impoverished must submit themselves to the justice system. County jails across California have adopted pretrial programs, releasing qualified detainees who cannot afford monetary bail if they promise to appear in court or if they are supervised. Although critics argue that offenders are less of a flight risk with money bails, proponents reason that monetary bail favors wealth and promotes a fairer justice system.

The topic of money bails is a controversial issue as many contend that it allows those who have money to purchase their freedom, while those who are impoverished must submit themselves to the justice system. County jails across California have adopted pretrial programs, releasing qualified detainees who cannot afford monetary bail if they promise to appear in court or if they are supervised. Although critics argue that offenders are less of a flight risk with money bails, proponents reason that monetary bail favors wealth and promotes a fairer justice system.