A type of jail release commonly called "own recognizance" release can be a way to get out of jail for free, but is it realistic in your case? Unfortunately, the answer is usually no. It takes a perfect storm of circumstances to achieve an own recognizance release. Below, you can learn more about these circumstances, as well as a potentially better option for getting out of jail quickly.

What is Own Recognizance?

This type of release is basically a free bail release. If you get own recognizance release, you will be allowed to leave jail after signing a form stating that you will be responsible for appearing at all future court dates related to the charges. No money will be due to secure an own recognizance release. 

What Requirements Must Be Met For An Own Recognizance Release?

There are several requirements to secure an own recognizance release, including:

• Minor Charges: To get an own recognizance jail release, the charges must typically be misdemeanor ones.

• Clean Record: If you have any prior convictions, an own recognizance release will typically be denied.

• Local Ties: To secure an own recognizance release, you usually need to demonstrate strong ties to the community. This can include a local job, local residence, and having family in the area

What Other Circumstances Must Be Present?

If you meet all the requirements listed above, the court may consider granting you an own recognizance release. However, certain things usually have to happen first.

• If the jails are over-crowded, this encourages own recognizance releases
• If the jail conducts entry interviews when defendants arrive, this can help establish eligibility for own recognizance release
• You or your attorney must request own recognizance at the initial court date, since a judge is the only person who can grant this release

What is the Best Alternative to Own Recognizance Jail Release?

If own recognizance release doesn't look like a good possibility for you, there is another option that may actually get you out of jail faster. Bail bond companies, like A Alpha Bail Bonds, work with people who have been charged with a crime to help them secure fast release from jail.

Many people just can't afford to pay the bail amount that the court sets. Bail bond companies charge only a percentage of that bail amount, usually around 10 percent of the total bail.

To get a bail bond, you must be willing to sign a contract promising that the charged person will appear in court. You may need to prove that you live and work locally to secure a bail bond.

It is possible to get a bail bond more quickly than an own recognizance release. As long as your bail has been set and you come up with the required percentage to pay the bail bond company, you can usually get a bail bond.

With a bail bond, you can often be out of jail within a day or less. By contrast, an own recognizance release can take days or longer, since you're waiting on a court date and a judge's approval.