What is the purpose of a bail hearing?

The purpose of a bail hearing is primarily to determine the appropriateness of bail based on the case facts. During this hearing, the judge evaluates various factors such as the severity of the charges, the defendant's criminal history, the likelihood of them appearing for future court dates, and any potential risks to public safety. The outcome of the bail hearing directly affects whether the defendant will be released from custody while awaiting trial and under what conditions, ensuring that the bail amount aligns with the nature of the offense and the individual circumstances of the accused.

Other aspects like setting a trial date or discussing plea deals are handled in different proceedings, and the decision about whether a defendant remains in jail during the trial is a consequence of the bail decision rather than the primary purpose of the hearing itself. Thus, the primary focus is indeed on assessing bail appropriateness, making the chosen answer the most accurate one.