How does bail work in Missouri?
1. Constitutional Framework
Mo. Const. art. I, § 20 grants bail right except capital offenses. § 21 prohibits excessive bail.
2. Cash, Surety, Property, OR Bonds
Rule 33.01 (amended 2019) requires courts to impose the least restrictive conditions. Options: ROR, unsecured bond, surety, cash, property bond.
3. Bail Hearing
Rule 22.07 requires arraignment "without unnecessary delay." Local rules typically require 48-hour appearance.
4. Bail Schedules
Some circuit courts maintain schedules; many eliminated after the 2019 reform.
5. Bail Bond Agent / Bondsman
Licensed under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 374.700 et seq.; 10% premium typical.
6. Conditions
Rule 33.01(d) authorizes no-contact, GPS, drug testing, and supervised release.
7. Bail Forfeiture
Mo. Rev. Stat. § 544.640 governs forfeiture; surety has limited time to surrender principal.
8. Bail Reduction
Rule 33.05 allows modification; writ of habeas corpus available for excessive bail.
9. Pretrial Release Programs
Some counties operate pretrial services with risk assessment.
This is legal information, not legal advice.
- Bail set despite Rule 33.01 least-restrictive requirement
- Capital charge
- Bond forfeiture proceeding
- Mo. Rev. Stat. Ch. 544
- Mo. Sup. Ct. R. 33
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.