Rules set for early release of suspects

[TexasStooge]

By Susan Schrock;Melody Mcdonald, Star-Telegram Staff Writers

FORT WORTH, Texas - Tarrant County judges approved a policy Wednesday that essentially eliminates the use of so-called writ bonds, a controversial practice that allows defense attorneys to get clients out of jail without a hearing or posting bail.

The policy, unanimously approved by the judges, gives magistrates specific guidelines for deciding whether to release a suspect who claims to be jailed unlawfully. It also requires magistrates to gather more information about a suspect's arrest and criminal history when considering releasing that person from jail on a pretrial writ of habeas corpus.