Behind the Bench: Unveiling the Dynamics of Bail Hearings
Featuring
[Moderator] Lisel Petis, Senior Fellow, Criminal Justice and Civil Liberties, R Street Institute
Hon. Julie Kaelin, Circuit Court Judge, Jefferson County, Kentucky
Hon. Clint Hull, Circuit Court Judge, Kane County, Illinois
Hon. Te’iva Bell, District Court Judge, Harris County, Texas
Hon. Brittany Schneider, District Court Judge, 14th Judicial District, Colorado
Overview
Why do bail system changes remain a topic of intense debate nationwide? A couple of competing fears are driving the tension: pretrial release compromising public safety and worries about systemic inequities and unjust consequences for those presumed innocent. Bail systems vary from state to state and county to county, and they often remain a mystery to those who have never participated in the process. Without a clear understanding of how pretrial policies, tools, and logistics work, fear can often drown out common sense in the reform debate.
In this webinar, you will hear from our panel of judges representing different jurisdictions who will provide a better understanding of how the legal system navigates the delicate balance between public safety and individual rights. Drawing on their expertise, the judges will explain the considerations surrounding bail, compare and contrast their experiences from diverse legal landscapes, and offer a glimpse into the decision-making process. Whether you’re a policymaker, criminal justice professional, or an advocate for change, this webinar will give you insight into what the bail system is—and what it could be.
Key pretrial release topics will include:
- How safety and flight concerns are identified and addressed
- Approaches to repeat offenders
- Use of cash bail
- Perspectives on challenges with the current system
Additional information on bail and pretrial release: