When the Abuser Gets Out of Jail

Knowing if the abuser is still incarcerated and when s/he is scheduled to be released is an important part of staying safe. After the abuser is arrested, there are a few different reasons why the abuser can be released from custody.

1. If the abuser is being held in jail while the charges are pending, s/he can be released if s/he:
   
   1. has posted bail or bond;
   2. has been arraigned and “released on his/her own recognizance,” which means without having to pay bail or bond;
   3. a plea agreement has been reached before a trial is held, where the outcome is that the abuser is placed on probation, gets a suspended sentence, or there is some other outcome rather than being sentenced to jail or prison time; or
   4. the charges have been dropped.
2. If the abuser is in jail or prison after having been convicted of a crime, s/he can be released if s/he:
   
   1. completes his/her sentence;
   2. is released on parole or probation; or
   3. has appealed the conviction to a higher court and the conviction is reversed or overturned.