Maine Bail Types & Conditions
After being arrested and arraigned for a crime, a court may set bail for your case. This is a set amount of cash or property that you put up as collateral to avoid immediate jail time. Each state is responsible for setting its own bail types and conditions. Bail conditions in Maine are similar to national standards, though there are a few key differences.
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Bonds
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In most states, bail bonds are available as a kind of short-term loan to cover bail that is too high for the defendant to pay. Maine, however, has no bond system. Defendants are expected to cover the cash amount of the bond themselves or offer up property that is equal or greater in value. If all bail conditions are met, this property will remain in possession of the defendant.
Appearance
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The most common bail condition is appearance. It is, in fact, the basis for bail law and is in place to ensure that the defendant shows up for his court date. If the defendant (or, in the case of certain civil suits, an attorney representing the defendant) fails to appear in court at the designated date and time, the bail amount is forfeited to the court.
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Limited Freedom
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Several conditions can be applied to limit the freedom of a released defendant. She may have to remain in the custody of a person or organization that can assure that she will return on the designated date. The defendant may also be limited to her home or place of business and may be required to report back to custody periodically. A curfew may also be imposed, and the defendant may be prohibited from drinking alcohol or using any drugs.
No-Contact
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Often bail will include conditions of no-contact with one or more people connected to the case. If the crime involves another person as a victim, the defendant will almost always be released with the condition that they have no direct or indirect contact with the victim. The defendant may also be ordered to have no contact with any other defendants that may have also been released on bail related to the crime.
Notification
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Some bail conditions require the defendant to keep in constant contact with one or more people. He may have to check in regularly with the court or law enforcement agency to ensure that he has not left town. Alternatively, the court may order regular check-ins with an attorney. The court may also require notification if there is a change of address, phone number, place of employment or any other major change.
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References
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