Some individuals who are arrested for criminal charges will be released from jail while their court case is moving through the system. While most of these individuals will have to put up money or assets to secure their release, this isn’t the case for people who the court releases on their own recognizance.
Being released on your own recognizance means that you are giving your word that you will show up to future court hearings. The court isn’t asking that you provide anything in exchange for your release except for your signature on a document that acknowledges you know when your next court date will occur.
Just because you don’t have to put up money for bail doesn’t mean that you are free to do whatever you want. Some courts will impose conditions on your release. If you don’t comply with these or if you don’t show up for court, a warrant for your arrest is likely going to be issued. This means that you could face more legal troubles.
If there is a victim in the crime that you are accused of, you might have to avoid having contact with that person. You may be told that you need to take certain classes, such as anger management. There are also some instances in which you will have to check in with the police department or a community corrections officer at set intervals.
If you are being released pending the outcome of your case, make sure that you are using your time wisely. You can get to work on your defense strategy during this time. Be sure that you fully understand the terms of your release so you can comply with these while your case proceeds.