If you were arrested in Maryland, you may be able to get out of jail on your own recognizance. This is also called “personal recognizance” or “OR release.” It allows some defendants to be released without paying money to post bond. This is particularly helpful for people who don’t have the money saved back for bail and would have to wait for their hearing in jail. But how do you qualify for personal recognizance release?

Understanding Personal Recognizance Release In Maryland

You won’t need to pay anything to get out of jail if you are released on personal recognizance, but some defendants aren’t eligible for this type of release. This is most commonly done when the defendant has no prior criminal background, but individuals who can illustrate community engagement may be accepted for OR release as well.

In these circumstances, a judge deems that the suspect is not likely to leave the area and can be relied on to appear in court for their jury trial.

Pros & Cons Of OR Release

Rather than staying in jail to wait for their trial, defendants who are released on their own recognizance can remain employed and continue providing for their families. You’ll have more time and resources available to you outside of jail than if you were behind bars until your trial.

You must also be mindful of the possible drawbacks of OR release. Don’t accept until you know exactly how getting out of jail on personal recognizance will affect you. Check to see what limitations may be imposed on you first.

Many people on OR release are restricted from traveling while their case is still in progress. If you leave jail on personal recognizance and fail to appear in court, the consequences are probably going to be more severe than if you had just posted bond and then failed to appear.

Get Help From A Maryland DWI Lawyer Now

If you were arrested for drinking and driving in Maryland, your future and rights are at stake. It’s crucial that you act quickly to get qualified help from an experienced DWI attorney. Your legal team will advocate for your best interests regardless of the charges you’re facing or how serious the consequences are.

Call veteran Ocean City criminal defense lawyer Richard Brueckner today for a consultation regarding your DWI case by dialing 410-430-1464.