What does 'personal recognizance' imply for a defendant?

'Personal recognizance' implies that a defendant is released from custody without having to pay bail, provided they promise to appear in court for future hearings. This arrangement is typically used for defendants who pose minimal flight risk or who are considered to be of good character, suggesting that they can be trusted to return to court without the financial compulsion of a bail amount.

This option highlights the reliance on the defendant’s integrity and accountability rather than financial means. Such a measure supports the principle that individuals should not be unnecessarily detained while awaiting trial, especially if the charges they face are not severe, and allows them to continue with their daily lives while fulfilling their legal obligations.

The other choices suggest conditions that involve financial obligations or custody, which do not align with the essence of 'personal recognizance.' This makes the selected answer accurate as it captures the primary function of this type of release.