5. Go to your bail hearing
Question and answer
How do I get bail?Bail hearings are usually heard virtually, either by phone or video using Zoom. A judge may decide that the hearing should be in person. The judge might choose an in-person hearingthe jail doesn't have a good internet connection, or because you're representing yourself.
If your hearing is virtual, correctional officers will take you to a room with a computer that is connected to the courtroom when it's time for your hearing.
If your hearing is in person, correctional officers will take you from the police station or the jail to the courthouse for your bail hearing.
Before the hearing begins, you will get the chance to meet with your lawyer or to talk about your plan. You can also ask to talk to your lawyer or duty counsel privately during the hearing.
What happens
At the bail hearing, the Crown tells the court why they think you should not get bail based on the grounds of detention. Or that you should have certain bail conditions.
Your lawyer or duty counsel explains why you should get bail. They present your bail plan to show the court you're not a risk to the community or justice system.
If it's a reverse onus bail hearing, your lawyer or duty counsel presents your bail plan and tries to convince the court that you should be released.
If you have a , they might have to about their involvement in your bail plan.
Bail order
The judge or justice of the peace decides if you get released on bail or are kept in jail. And they decide what bail conditions you should follow if you are released.
For example, you may:
- not be allowed to communicate with the victim or
- not be allowed within a specific distance of a specific place, person, or persons
- have to live at a specific address, for example with your surety
- have to stay at home during specific hours, usually overnight
For more information on how the judge or justice decides if you get bail or what conditions you should have read How will the court decide if I get bail?