Holly Ziemer
@hziemer.bsky.social
Follow for news and explainers on pretrial justice and advancing legal, equitable, and effective pretrial systems.
I connect reporters and editors with resources and experts to explain pretrial research, law, and data.
I connect reporters and editors with resources and experts to explain pretrial research, law, and data.
The good news: we know what to do. IL is the most recent example & shows that money isn’t needed. We can create a rational legal framework that upholds the presumption of innocence, judges make intentional decisions about release or detention, & community safety is enhanced.
August 12, 2025 at 8:04 PM
The good news: we know what to do. IL is the most recent example & shows that money isn’t needed. We can create a rational legal framework that upholds the presumption of innocence, judges make intentional decisions about release or detention, & community safety is enhanced.
As a condition of release, multiple studies show money isn’t an incentive to appear in court. As a way to detain people, we also know that money isn’t effective. Setting a million-dollar bond isn’t a guarantee that the person will be detained.
August 12, 2025 at 8:04 PM
As a condition of release, multiple studies show money isn’t an incentive to appear in court. As a way to detain people, we also know that money isn’t effective. Setting a million-dollar bond isn’t a guarantee that the person will be detained.
#2 judges use money bond as a means to detain someone. The judge sets a high amount w/the hope that the person won’t be able to pay, & they’ll remain in jail. We’ve known for a long time that money isn’t effective at either of these two purposes.
August 12, 2025 at 8:04 PM
#2 judges use money bond as a means to detain someone. The judge sets a high amount w/the hope that the person won’t be able to pay, & they’ll remain in jail. We’ve known for a long time that money isn’t effective at either of these two purposes.
It IS possible to collect & analyze data, but few pretrial systems do. Too often, pretrial practices are based on anecdotes. Reporters covering pretrial issues should always ask system stakeholders & policymakers to back up claims with data, and if they can’t, report that.
December 13, 2024 at 4:49 PM
It IS possible to collect & analyze data, but few pretrial systems do. Too often, pretrial practices are based on anecdotes. Reporters covering pretrial issues should always ask system stakeholders & policymakers to back up claims with data, and if they can’t, report that.