TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Julia Wilburn on Sep 20, 2023

Since the introduction of a reformed bail system in Shelby County, data reveals an increase in the average bail amounts for defendants facing violent charges when they are initially booked at the Shelby County Criminal Justice Center. However, bail amounts for non-violent offenses have decreased since the new bail hearing room opened. The changes reserve pretrial detention for individuals accused of serious, violent offenses and allows others the opportunity to secure release regardless of their financial situation. There are ongoing discussions and calls for increased transparency regarding the new bail system, with some officials and critics expressing concerns about the impact of low bail amounts on public safety. The Commercial Appeal has the story.