When setting bail, the judge must consider the safety of the victim and the community.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Only the defendant's flight risk matters
• D. Safety can be considered later

Answer: (B)

Setting bail involves balancing the defendant’s likelihood of appearing in court with the need to protect the public. Courts must evaluate whether releasing someone would pose a danger to the victim or to the community. If releasing would create a risk to safety, the judge can set a higher bail amount, impose conditions (like no-contact orders, electronic monitoring, or surrender of weapons), or even detain the person. This safety consideration is part of the bail decision made at the hearing, not something to decide later. Flight risk is another factor that matters, but it isn’t the only one; both flight risk and public safety guide the decision. So the statement that the judge must consider the safety of the victim and the community is true.