Bail in the Midwest, Courtney Wimer, President, Washington State Bail Agents Association

Join host Shane Rolf and his guest, Courtney Wimer, President of the Washington State Bail Agents Association, as they discuss proposed changes to court rules in Washington and their potential impact on the state’s pretrial system.  Ms. Wimer explains how the proposed “high likelihood of willful flight” standard, new limits on misdemeanor bond amounts and restrictions on judicial discretion could fundamentally alter how bail is set and enforced.  She raises concerns about separation of powers, noting that such sweeping changes are being pursued through court rulemaking rather than the legislative process and highlights the unprecedented number of public comments submitted in opposition.  The conversation also explores the broader implications for public safety, court administration and the balance between defendants’ rights and accountability within the criminal justice system.