How does bail work in Michigan?
1. Constitutional Framework
Mich. Const. art. I, § 15 grants right to bail except capital offenses (none in Michigan since 1846) and certain violent recidivism scenarios.
2. Cash, Surety, Property, OR Bonds
MCR 6.106 authorizes personal recognizance, unsecured bond, conditional release, 10% bond, cash bond, and surety bond.
3. Bail Hearing
MCR 6.104(A) requires arraignment "without unnecessary delay" — interpreted as 48 hours under People v. Manning, 434 Mich. 1 (1990).
4. Bail Schedules
District courts publish interim bond schedules under MCR 6.102.
5. Bail Bond Agent / Bondsman
Licensed under MCL 750.167b; surety bondsmen typically charge 10% nonrefundable premium.
6. Conditions
MCR 6.106(D) authorizes drug testing, no-contact, GPS, and pretrial supervision.
7. Bail Forfeiture
MCL 765.28 governs forfeiture; surety has 28 days to surrender principal or contest forfeiture.
8. Bail Reduction
MCR 6.106(H) allows modification on motion.
9. Pretrial Release Programs
Counties operate pretrial services with risk assessments and supervision.
This is legal information, not legal advice.
- High monetary bond imposed despite PR presumption
- Felony charge with restrictive conditions
- Bond forfeiture proceeding
- MCR 6.106
- MCL 765.1 et seq.
- MCL 765.28
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.