If you’re arrested on or after January 1, 2023, the state won’t require you to pay money to get out of jail. With the passage of House Bill 3653, the Illinois Pretrial Fairness Act, people accused of crime will eliminate cash bail. Here’s what you need to know.
Related: Answers from a Skokie DUI lawyer
Illinois Ending Cash Bail on January 1, 2023
The Illinois Pretrial Fairness Act (HB 3653) is a sweeping change to existing law in the state. When the law goes into full effect, which won’t happen until January 1, 2023, courts will no longer be allowed to set bail payments as a condition of release. That means the court can’t charge you money to get out of jail.
Instead, courts will have to consider a number of factors to determine whether it’s safe to allow a person out of jail before their trial, as well as whether the person is likely to return for court. That means people with a history of missing court dates may have to stay in jail; so will those accused of some serious crimes (particularly those involving violence), and those who are likely to pose a threat to others.
Related: What is aggravated DUI in Illinois?
Will You Still Need an Attorney at a Bond Hearing?
If you’re like most people, you’ll still want an Illinois criminal defense attorney with you at your bond hearing. That’s because sometimes it’s a good idea to have someone explain to the judge that you’re not a risk – that it’s safe to let you go home before your next court date, and that you’ll return when you’re supposed to. You’re free to represent yourself, but most people feel that they get the best possible outcome when there’s a lawyer representing them. (Naturally, there’s no way to predict how a judge will rule.)
Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney?
If you’ve been accused of a crime, we may be able to help you – and don’t worry: It’s completely confidential. Call us at 847-920-4540 or fill out the form below to schedule your free, private consultation with an experienced and skilled Chicago criminal defense attorney now.
Contact Us
"*" indicates required fields
