What type of bond is equivalent to personal recognizance?

A personal recognizance bond allows a defendant to be released from custody without having to pay bail, based solely on their promise to return for court appearances. This type of bond is often granted to individuals deemed low risk, as it relies on their integrity and assures the court that they will comply with legal obligations.

A non-surety bond is equivalent to personal recognizance in that it does not require collateral or a third-party guarantor. Instead, it signifies the defendant’s own promise to appear in court. This contrasts with other bond types, such as surety bonds, which involve a bond agent providing the court a guarantee on behalf of the defendant, often accompanied by a fee. Cash bonds require a monetary deposit, while collateral bonds involve securing the bond with physical assets.

Understanding these distinctions clarifies why non-surety bonds and personal recognizance are closely aligned, as both are based on the defendant's agreement to return for trial without financial obligations.