I Believe That my, or my Friend / Relative’s Bail in MA Was Set too High. Can I Try to Have the Bail Reduced?

The brief answer to this question is generally yes. While all the facts and circumstances vary, there are usually several different ways in which one can attempt to reduce bail to an amount that is easier to manage.

Bail is designed to ensure that a person shows up in court when they are required to do so. Bail is usually proportionate to the seriousness of the alleged crime. Generally speaking, the more serious the crime, the higher the bail.

The court generally sets bail or refuses to set bail at arraignment. To set the bail, the court will weigh a variety of different factors that go to whether or not you pose a danger or are at risk of fleeing. A lawyer will try to ease the judge’s concerns about releasing the client. One method commonly utilized at bail hearings is to have people who know the client, such as family and friends, come to the court to show strong ties to the community and support for the individual facing criminal charges. Ties to the community can also be shown with evidence that the defendant has a job, owns local property, is involved with community or local organizations, has lived in the community for a long time, etc. An experienced criminal defense attorney will be able to evaluate all of the factors and advise you on which facts should be highlighted to the judge during the bail hearing.

If the court sets the amount of bail too high (i.e. in light of the alleged crime, the persons financial capabilities, etc.), a Motion to Reduce Bail or a Motion to Release On Recognizance can be filed.

MA Bail Hearing Attorneys at the Law Firm of Altman & Altman, LLP

If you believe that your bail (or your friend or relative’s bail) was set too high, call an experienced lawyer who will try to have the bail reduced to a more reasonable amount. Call the Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys of Altman & Altman LLP Today at 617.492.3000 or 800.481.6199.

Altman & Altman, LLP’s criminal defense practice group is comprised of outstanding attorneys with years upon years of combined practical experience. For over 40 years, the lawyers at the MA Law Firm of Altman & Altman, LLP have been providing outstanding legal services to clients throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

At Altman & Altman, LLP, we are extremely dedicated to our clients and never stop working until we achieve the best outcome possible for them. Our attorneys are available 24 hours a day – 7 days a week. With offices conveniently located in Boston and Cambridge, our attorneys pride themselves on being available when their clients need them. Whenever you have a question for them, no matter what time or day of the week, they will make themselves available to you. If you or a loved one has had a bail amount set by the court which you believe may be too high, please Call the exceptional criminal defense attorneys of Altman & Altman LLP toll free at 617.492.3000 or 800.481.6199. All initial consultations are confidential and free of charge.