A condition under which an individual is released in lieu of bail, i.e., upon his or her promise to appear and answer a criminal charge. See, e.g., 18 U.S.C. §3142(b). Bail is intended to assure the defendant's appearance when required by the trial court. The ROR procedure permits his or her release on non-monetary conditions, generally involving only his or her promise to appear but sometimes involving special conditions (e.g., remaining in the custody of another, abiding by travel restrictions, etc.).
In determining whether to permit ROR, the court must take into account the nature and circumstances of the offense charged, the weight of the evidence against the accused, the accused's family ties, employment, financial resources, character and mental condition, the length of residence in the community, record of convictions, and record of appearance at court proceedings or of flight to avoid prosecution or failure to appear at court proceedings. Id. At §3142(g)(1)-(4). See recognizance.
