Everything You Need to Know About Illinois’ New Bail Reform Act

 Posted on September 01, 2017 in Criminal Law

In 2015, more than 1,000 non-violent, low-level offenders spent more time in jail than they were sentenced to serve. The reason? They did not have the money to post bail. To keep this from happening any longer, and to ultimately reduce the overpopulation of local jails and prisons, Governor Bruce Rauner signed the Bail Reform Act into law. What is this new law, and how might it affect your criminal charges case? The following explains.

Cash Bail No Longer Required for Some Offenses

Criminal justice reform advocates have been criticizing the state’s bail system for some time now, calling it unfair to Illinois’ poorer and disadvantaged communities. Most could not afford the 10 percent down payment needed to meet bail. Instead, they would be forced to spend weeks, sometimes months incarcerated for non-violent or low-level crimes.

Now, under the new law, some low-level offenders may be given a non-monetary bail such as a stay-away order, drug or alcohol counseling, curfew, in-person reporting, or electronic home monitoring. If by chance, the individual is given a monetary bail amount that they cannot afford to pay, they are permitted to request a rehearing of their bail. That rehearing must be provided to them within seven days of the request.

Are You Eligible for a Non-Monetary Bail Option?

The new bail law does not cover all non-violent or low-level offenses, but it does cover a large portion of them. For example, most non-violent misdemeanors are covered under the new law. Certain felony charges, such as prostitution, theft, drug possession, and driving under the influence are also included. If you are facing any such charges, or if you otherwise believe that you may be eligible for a non-monetary bail option, be sure to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer about your options.

Contact Our DuPage County Criminal Defense Lawyers

Despite what you may have been led to believe, criminal charges are not convictions. You do still have a fighting chance! In fact, there may be ways to suppress certain evidence, or there may be details about your case that otherwise justify a dismissal of your case. Even in the worst of situations, it may be possible to mitigate against any consequences you could be facing.

Dedicated to your best interest, Davi Law Group, LLC is the firm to call. Our DuPage County criminal defense lawyers will aggressively protect your rights and pursue the most favorable outcome possible in your case. Schedule a personalized consultation to learn more. Call 630-580-6373 today.

Source:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-bruce-rauner-bail-bill-met-0610-20170609-story.html