CORE FUNCTIONS OF A PRETRIAL RELEASE
PROGRAM
The core functions of a pretrial release program include:
1.
A process for obtaining current, accurate information from legal system and law enforcement databases, and from the defendant, as early as possible and in most cases before the defendant’s first appearance before a judicial officer;
2.
Verification processes to confirm interview information and criminal history checks.
3.
Use of a validated tool to assess risk of pretrial misconduct through objective means, and to present recommendations to the court for pretrial release conditions which are appropriate to each individual defendant’s risk factors and circumstances;
4.
Accountable and appropriate pretrial supervision or monitoring of defendants who are released, including court date reminders to assure the defendant’s appearance in court;
5.
Follow up reviews, at reasonable intervals, of defendants who were unable to meet the release conditions ordered by the court
6.
Accurate reporting of outcomes, and an ongoing process to assure accurate pretrial assessments and effective pretrial monitoring and supervision.