What is an OR bond and who has the authority to issue it?

An OR bond, or "Own Recognizance" bond, is a type of release agreement that allows a person to be released from custody without having to pay bail, based on the promise that they will appear for all required court dates. This type of bond is typically issued by a judge or a sheriff, who assesses the individual's criminal history, flight risk, and the nature of the offense to determine whether the person can be trusted to return for their court appearances.

Judges and sheriffs are specifically trained to consider factors such as the severity of the offense, any past criminal behavior, and the individual’s ties to the community, which aids in making an informed decision about the issuance of the bond. This ensures that the rights of the individual are balanced with the interests of the community and the need for accountability in the judicial system.

In contrast, other roles mentioned do not possess the authority to issue these bonds; thus, understanding the legal framework and roles is essential in comprehending why "Own Recognizance" bonds are exclusively tied to judges and sheriffs.