Justice and Public Safety Announces Bail Supervision Program for Accused Individuals Awaiting Release
What is the Bail Supervision Program?
The Bail Supervision Pilot Program is available to accused individuals in St. John’s who would typically be granted bail but are unable to meet certain requirements, such as having a surety or a stable living arrangement. Individuals who would have been denied bail due to the nature of their offence(s) or the risk they pose to the community remain ineligible for the program.
The program serves as an alternative to custody for those on remand. It provides a clear plan of supervision for accused individuals seeking bail release and includes support and referrals to community agencies for services.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for bail supervision, an accused must meet the following criteria:
- Be an adult (18+ years old);
- Be currently in custody awaiting a bail hearing;
- Be willing to participate and agree to the conditions of release;
- Be unable to meet the requirements of a monetary condition, viable surety, and/or adequate housing.
When should a lawyer make a referral to the program?
A lawyer can make a referral to the program when:
- An accused requires a surety but does not have one, or the surety is not appropriate;
- An accused’s surety has withdrawn;
- An accused requires a monetary deposit or promise, but does not have the funds; or
- An accused does not have a suitable address to reside.
How does an individual become a client of the Bail Supervision Program?
- A lawyer or duty counsel will assess the mandatory criteria.
- If the criteria are met, the lawyer will complete the bail supervision referral form.
- Once the lawyer refers an individual, the Bail Supervisor will interview the applicant to determine whether they meet the program’s requirements.
- The Bail Supervisor will verify that the accused does not have an appropriate surety, monetary deposit, or residence.
- The Bail Supervisor will provide a verification report to the Crown, lawyer, or duty counsel, indicating whether the program is an option for the client.
- The Crown, lawyer, or duty counsel will submit the information to the court.
- The court will decide whether the accused will be released under the Bail Supervision Program.
Justice & Public Safety Corrections and Community Services
Phone: 709-729-0303
Email: BailSupervision@gov.nl.ca
Posted: March 11, 2025