What term describes a defendant released from custody on promise to appear, not by posting bond?

• A. Bail
• B. Cash Bond
• C. Release on Personal Recognizance
• D. Own Recognizance

Answer: (D)

Releasing someone on their own recognizance means the court lets the defendant go without posting any money or collateral, based solely on the promise to appear in court. The term recognizes that the individual’s agreement to return is their security—the court trusts they will show up. This is different from bail or a cash bond, which require money or property to be posted as security for release. The phrase “own recognizance” is the standard, concise way to express this concept, which is why it’s the best answer. The idea of “release on personal recognizance” describes the same practice, but the more common term used in practice and exams is “own recognizance.”