What Is A Bail Hearing
A bail hearing is a short court proceeding where a judge decides how much bail to set for a detained defendant, or whether to release them without bail. In Hennepin County, most bail hearings happen at the first appearance, which occurs within 36 to 48 hours of arrest.
Who Is In The Courtroom At A Bail Hearing
The hearing involves the judge, the prosecutor from the Hennepin County Attorney's Office, the defense attorney (or the defendant themselves if they do not have one yet), and the defendant appearing by video from the jail in most cases. Family members can attend and observe in most hearings.
What The Judge Considers When Setting Bail
- The severity and nature of the charges
- The defendant's criminal history and prior failures to appear
- The defendant's ties to the community (family, employment, length of residence)
- The flight risk of the defendant
- Whether the defendant poses a danger to the public
What Happens Right After Bail Is Set
Once the judge sets the bail amount, it is entered into the court system. A bail bondsman can post the bond immediately. Call us right after the hearing and we will start the release process.
Post bail at Hennepin County Jail.
Learn more about how judges make bail decisions in Minneapolis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can family members speak at a bail hearing in Minneapolis?
Generally no. The hearing is between the judge, the prosecutor, and the defense attorney. Family members typically cannot address the judge directly, but their presence can be noted by the defense attorney.
What is the fastest way to prepare for a bail hearing?
Contact a defense attorney before the hearing. An attorney can present evidence of community ties, employment, and other factors that support a lower bail amount.
Can bail be changed after it is set?
Yes. A defense attorney can file a motion to reduce bail after it has been set. The judge will hold another hearing to review the request.
We post bail 24/7. Call us and we'll walk you through every step.