WV SB806

Redefines bail as security for a defendant's court appearance and establishes 12 specific factors judicial officers must apply when determining pretrial release, bail amount, and conditions, including offense gravity, defendant's criminal history, flight risk, and ability to pay

Defendants charged with non-life imprisonment offenses are entitled to bail; those facing life imprisonment may receive bail at the court's discretion; bail pending appeal is prohibited for life imprisonment offenses or crimes involving firearms/deadly weapons/violence

Defendants may choose their bail form (cash, recognizance, bail bondsman, or other court-approved methods) unless restricted by judicial order with written findings; misdemeanor cash bail is capped at three times the maximum fine

Requires release on personal recognizance for most misdemeanors at first appearance, with exceptions for violent offenses, crimes against minors, weapons offenses, Schedule I/II drug violations, sexual abuse, serious DUI offenses, and certain property crimes

Authorizes additional pretrial release conditions including home incarceration, electronic monitoring, employment requirements, no-contact orders, and substance use restrictions; requires a hearing within 5 days for any defendant who remains jailed after initial appearance on a misdemeanor