Being held in custody in Ontario is one of the less fun experiences you can face. It not only affects you mentally but can impact your entire life. That includes ruining your reputation, relationships, and career.
When you are detained, you only want one thing: to be released. But most people charged with a criminal offence do not have a clear idea of their rights. That’s why they make costly mistakes that earn them jail time.
If you are ever held in custody, your first step after being charged should be to immediately call a professional bail lawyer in Brampton. They can give you knowledgeable legal representation and help you avoid jail.
In this post, you will find out what a bail hearing is, how it works, and how a Brampton bail lawyer can get you released.
Let’s get started.
What Is a Bail Hearing? (And How Does It Work?)
Bail hearings are also called court hearings or show cause hearings. They are held to allow the judge to decide whether the accused should be kept in custody or released while awaiting trial.
If the accused is granted a bail order, that allows them to stay out of custody while their case is in the court system. This hearing also sets the bail amount.
At the bail hearing, the Crown presents evidence to explain why the accused should not be released from custody. This evidence can include:
- A summary of the allegations
- The criminal record of the accused
- Testimony by witnesses or other parties
During the bail hearing, the judge mainly considers four factors:
- Will the accused offend again?
- Is the identity of the accused known?
- Will the accused appear for trial?
- Has all the evidence been collected?
If you have been arrested, you can remain in jail for months unless released at your bail hearing. So, contact a bail hearing lawyer without delay to discuss the hearing process.
How Can a Bail Hearing Lawyer Help You?
Hiring an experienced lawyer to represent you at a bail hearing increases your chances of being released so you can prepare for your trial with more focus and freedom.
Your bail lawyer helps to:
- Arrange the bail hearing as soon as possible.
- Reduce the bail money.
- Ensure that the accused gets released as early as possible.
- Confirm that the court does not impose strict bail conditions, restrictions on movement or the accused’s ability to work.
- Explain the court hearing to the accused and their family members and help them cope through the process.
- Advise on what documents to present to the court.
- Provide advice on what to say and how to act in court
Judges grant bail based on the nature of the accused’s crime and the risks posed by releasing them. That’s why you need a trusted lawyer who will stand up for your rights and make sure you get the lowest possible bail. So, when you hire an experienced criminal defence lawyer, they can help you present your case for the best possible outcome.