The bail system is a critical factor enabling the release of defendants who otherwise might remain in detention due to ineligibility for release on personal recognizance or release on other conditions. The bail system is complex and involves courts, other units of the Judiciary, and other stakeholders in the criminal justice system. Concern has been expressed that the Judiciary's practices and procedures may not be effective in implementing the current laws governing the bail system in Maryland. For this reason, Chief Judge Robert M. Bell signed an administrative order creating a task force to review the laws, practices and procedures governing bondsmen and bail bonds, and make recommendations for improvement.
Administrative Orders
- Administrative Order (07-22-08) rescinding order on Advisory Committee on Bail System
- Administrative Order (03-05-08) establishing Advisory Committee on Bail System and Rescinding Prior Order
- Administrative Order (10-23-03) establishing Bail System Task Force (rescinded by Administrative Order dated 03-05-08)
Members
Members of the Bail System Task ForceReports/Materials
- 2008 Proposed Legislation
- Report of the Bail System Task Force - Dissent (02-15-08
- Report of the Bail System Task Force (12-13-07)
- Revised Draft Report of the Bail System Task Force (11-11-07)
- Draft Report of the Bail System Task Force (06-21-04)
Appendix IV - Draft Legislation
Appendix V - Draft Rules
Law Chart - Pertinent rules, statues and regulations
Meetings
December 13, 2007 - Bail System Task Force met to discuss the Revised Draft Report.
Meeting Agendas/Minutes
11/10/04 Agenda Minutes
05/05/04 Agenda Minutes
03/03/04 Agenda Minutes
01/21/04 Agenda Minutes
12/13/03 Agenda Minutes
Bill Laws
Compilation of MD Laws
Table of Contents
Bail Laws from Other States (Indiana, Florida, North Carolina)
Press Release
Judiciary Task Force to Examine Bail Bond System (10/27/03)
Summary of Auditor Recommendations for consideration by Bail Bond Task Force (01/21/04)
Presentations
by Elizabeth Veronis on laws as to Judicial Branch Procedures (12/17/03)
by Rhea Reed, MD Judiciary Internal Auditor (12/17/03)