A Qualitative Analysis of Money Bail Process Experiences and Perceptions

• In Event: Issues Related to Bail and Pretrial Practices

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to better understand the experiences and perceptions of incarcerated defendants on the bail process and the use of money for pretrial release. This study was conducted within four jails in three states and included semi-structured, one-on-one interviews with 31 incarcerated pretrial defendants. We aimed to understand the reasons why defendants who are offered a money bond do not post it, as well as potential collateral consequences of not posting bond for these defendants. Preliminary findings from this study will be presented.

Authors

• Catherine S. Kimbrell, George Mason University

• David B. Wilson, George Mason University