SB 3567

Abstract

Amends the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963. Provides that subject to certain exceptions, a person who is charged with a violent crime shall appear before the court for the setting of bail and the establishment of bond conditions. Establishes factors that the court shall consider before setting bail and bond conditions for a person who appears before the court because the person is charged with a violent crime. Provides that upon the court's own motion or the motion of a party and upon any terms that the court may direct, the court may permit a person, who is required to appear before it because the person is charged with a violent crime, to appear by video conferencing equipment. Provides that if, in the opinion of the court, the appearance in person or by video conferencing equipment of a person who is charged with a misdemeanor and who is required to appear before the court because the person is charged with a violent crime is not practicable, the court may waive the appearance and release the person on bail on one or both of the following types of bail in an amount set by the court: (1) a bail bond secured by a deposit of 10% of the amount of the bond in cash; or (2) a surety bond, a bond secured by real estate or securities as allowed by law, or the deposit of cash, at the option of the person. Provides that the statute does not create a right in a person to appear before the court for the setting of bail or prohibit a court from requiring any person charged with a violent crime as defined in these provisions from appearing before the court for the setting of bail. Defines "violent crime".