How is Bail Determined and Who Sets the Bail Amount in Pennsylvania

Bail is set after a person is charged with a crime and well before trial. This is the main reason why bail is so important because if, you’re unable to post bail, he or she will have to remain in jail. Prior to setting bail, the bail authority (usually a judge or bail commissioner will listen to arguments from the defense and prosecution based on the following factors: The nature of the offense and any mitigation or aggravation regarding it The defendant’s employment history and financial condition The defendant’s family relationships (i.e. children) The length and nature of the defendant’s residence in the community and past residence The defendant’s age, reputation, and mental condition The defendant’s history regarding his or her failure to appear in the past The defendant’s prior criminal history Any other factors the court may find relevant in this analysis Your criminal defense lawyer should argue these points at your initial bail hearing and every subsequent bail petition hearing if it remains an issue. For more information on criminal defense, check out my free resource section!

The nature of the offense and any mitigation or aggravation regarding it The defendant’s employment history and financial condition The defendant’s family relationships (i.e. children) The length and nature of the defendant’s residence in the community and past residence The defendant’s age, reputation, and mental condition The defendant’s history regarding his or her failure to appear in the past The defendant’s prior criminal history Any other factors the court may find relevant in this analysis Your criminal defense lawyer should argue these points at your initial bail hearing and every subsequent bail petition hearing if it remains an issue. For more information on criminal defense, check out my free resource section!