Legal Definitions - release on one's own recognizance

A “release on one’s own recognizance” is a decision made by a court that allows a person who has been charged with a crime to remain free until their trial without having to pay bail. This is also known as “O.R.,” “R.O.R.,” or judicial public bail.

For example, in California, Penal Code § 1270 allows for release on one’s own recognizance for anyone who has been arrested or charged with a crime that is not a capital offense. This type of release is often granted to people who have strong ties to their community, a stable job, and no criminal record. It is also commonly given for minor offenses like traffic violations or technical crimes.

One example of release on one’s own recognizance might be a person who is charged with a minor traffic violation, like running a stop sign. If the person has a stable job, a good reputation in their community, and no prior criminal record, the court may decide to release them on their own recognizance instead of requiring them to pay bail.

Another example might be a person who is charged with a non-violent crime like shoplifting. If the person has a stable job and no prior criminal record, the court may decide to release them on their own recognizance instead of requiring them to pay bail.

These examples illustrate how release on one’s own recognizance is often granted to people who are considered low-risk and have strong ties to their community. It allows them to remain free until their trial without having to pay bail, which can be a financial burden for many people.