The proposed changes made by HB4547 are significant as they detail the conditions and obligations tied to bail bonds. They mandate that any bail bond must include provisions that hold the defendant and their sureties responsible for covering any expenses incurred by law enforcement officers during the process of rearresting a defendant who fails to appear. This could lead to increased financial liability for sureties and defendants, promoting a stronger emphasis on the importance of appearing in court as scheduled.
Summary
House Bill 4547 relates to the requirements for bail bonds, amending the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, specifically Article 17.08. The bill stipulates that all bail bonds issued must include certain essential elements, including being payable to 'The State of Texas' and containing clear statements regarding the charges against the defendant, whether felony or misdemeanor. It also requires signatures from all involved parties, with accompanying mailing addresses, ensuring the bond is comprehensive and enforceable in various judicial scenarios.
Contention
A notable point of contention surrounding this bill may involve the financial implications for defendants and their families, particularly in cases where the costs associated with rearrests can be burdensome. Opponents of the bill might argue that these additional requirements could potentially create an unjust financial strain on individuals, especially those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
Notable_points
Furthermore, HB4547 indicates that the expiration date of a bail bond must not exceed three years from the date of signing, with provisions for one-year renewals, conditional on proper affidavit submissions. The clarity and strictness of these terms aim to enhance compliance among defendants, ensuring that the expectations surrounding their legal bonds are transparent and rigorously enforced.
Relating to the release of defendants on bail, the duties of a magistrate in certain criminal proceedings, and the notice provided by peace officers to adult victims of family violence.
Relating to the release of defendants on bail, the duties of a magistrate in certain criminal proceedings, and the appointment of certain criminal law hearing officers; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the release on bail of certain defendants accused of committing a felony offense and the criminal consequences of committing a felony while released on bail for a prior felony; creating a criminal offense; increasing the minimum term of imprisonment for certain felonies; changing eligibility for deferred adjudication community supervision, mandatory supervision, and parole.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to set a minimum amount of monetary bond for persons charged with certain felony offenses involving violence and requiring the denial of bail to a person accused of committing a felony while released on bail for a prior felony under most circumstances.
Relating to magistration proceedings for criminal defendants and the retention of related records, to services and representation provided to indigent criminal defendants and indigent juveniles, and to the governance and administration of the Texas Indigent Defense Commission.
Relating to certain requirements of protective orders and conditions of release on bond and to the criminal penalties for violating those requirements and conditions.