New York Cash Bail Reform

Flashcards about the New York cash bail reform, its implications, and the surrounding debate.

Cash Bail

A system where defendants post cash or bond to ensure they return to court, which they forfeit if they fail to appear.

Landmark Measure

Bail reform was intended to stop the poor from being jailed before trail simply because they had few resources.

Supervised Release Programs

Programs used in cities and counties to ensure people show up to court as their cases move forward. Officials stay in touch with defendants through phone calls or meetings.

Risk of Flight

Since the 1970s, New York judges have been able to consider only the risk of flight in setting bail, not public safety.

Least Restrictive Conditions

Under the new bail reform rules, judges must impose the “least restrictive conditions” that will assure people return to court, such as supervised release, travel restrictions, or electronic monitoring.

District Attorneys Association of New York

An association whose president, David Hoovler, voiced concerns that repeat offenders will be released under the new bail laws.

Bias Attack

An attack based on prejudice, such as the one committed by Tiffany Harris, who was arrested a day after being charged with a bias attack on several Orthodox Jewish women in Brooklyn.

Innocent Till Proven guilty

Senator Michael Gianaris said the bail system was functioning as guilty till proven rich and that needed fixing.

New Yorkers United for Justice

A group that has spent more than $2 million to champion the new bail reform law, including hosting Democratic lawmakers and creating media campaigns.