Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Law Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a detention hearing?

1. To evaluate if there is a necessity to keep the accused in custody

2. To finalize the guilt of the accused

3. To establish bond conditions

4. To set a trial date

The correct answer is: To evaluate if there is a necessity to keep the accused in custody

The purpose of a detention hearing is primarily to assess whether there is a need to keep the accused individual in custody pending further legal proceedings. During this hearing, a judge examines the circumstances surrounding the arrest and considers factors such as the nature of the charges, the accused's criminal history, potential flight risk, and the safety of the community. The goal is not to determine guilt, set bond conditions, or establish a trial date; rather, it focuses specifically on the necessity of detention to maintain public safety and ensure that the accused will appear for future court proceedings. This function is pivotal in the justice system, as it balances individual rights with community safety concerns.