Question 4: True or false: People who are jailed before trial are more likely to be convicted.
The correct answer is: True
People who are detained before trial can face great pressure to plead guilty just to get out of jail. Studies have shown an increased likelihood of being convicted when one is detained before trial. When individuals are jailed, especially on a lower-level criminal charge, their focus tends to be on regaining freedom. The immediate consequences of being away from family, work, and other obligations can often outweigh the future consequences of a criminal conviction in the mind of the accused. Defendants will, at times, plead guilty to and be convicted of offenses, even when they would not be convicted at trial.
Learn more about Washington’s pre-trial bail system and why we should reform it. Download a free copy of our position paper, “No Money, No Freedom.”
