Which of the following is a factor bonds are based on?

• A. Age of the defendant
• B. Severity of the crime
• C. Color of the defendant's shirt
• D. Height of the courtroom

Answer: (B)

Bond decisions hinge on risk and safety, with the seriousness of the alleged offense standing as the primary indicator of potential danger and likelihood of flight. A more serious crime suggests greater risk and supports imposing a higher bond or stricter conditions to ensure the defendant appears in court and to protect the public. The defendant’s age, the color of clothing, or the height of the courtroom have no bearing on risk or offense severity, so they’re not factors in setting bond. Therefore, the factor bonds are based on is the severity of the crime.