WHAT IS A FIRST APPEARANCE HEARING?
In more violent crimes or if the defendant cannot post bond, within hours of the arrest, the Court holds a “First Appearance” hearing. The Judge decides whether the defendant can be released based on the nature of the offense, evidence, defendant’s employment status, mental condition, ties to the community, and previous convictions and if so, what conditions are necessary to protect the victim/witness. Bail may be set when the arrest is made on probable cause by law enforcement. There are times when the defendant is released on his/her own recognizance (signature bond). The Judge can include special conditions ordering the defendant to have “no contact” with the victim and/or witness. You may attend the First Appearance hearing at 9:00 a.m. the morning following the arrest at the Alachua County Criminal Courthouse, 220 S. Main Street, Gainesville, Florida.
