Not always. A surety is a responsible person who agrees to supervise you and help ensure that you follow your bail conditions. A surety may be helpful in a serious case or where the court has concerns about your release. In other cases, a suitable address and reasonable conditions may be enough.

FAQs Archive - Page 3 of 12 - Muenz Criminal Law

Q: Can my bail conditions be changed?

Yes. A lawyer can ask the Crown to agree to a change. If the Crown does not agree, it may be necessary to apply to the court. Until a condition is formally changed, you must continue to follow it. This remains true even if another person tells you that contact or attendance is permitted. Breaching a bail condition can lead to a new charge and another arrest.

Q: What will the court consider?

The court will consider: Whether you will attend court as required; Whether your release could create a risk to the public; and The seriousness of the charge and the surrounding circumstances. Your criminal record, history of following court orders, ties to the community and proposed release plan may also be important.