How Long Can You Be On Bail For In The UK?

12th December 2024
Nick Titchener headshot

Nick Titchener

Managing Partner

After an arrest, defendants can face various outcomes. The most frequent ones include being released on bail or being released under investigation (RUI). We’ve noticed that clients often have difficulty distinguishing between the two, which can result in breaches of bail conditions or even additional offences. Below, we explain in detail what happens after you have been questioned by the police and are out on bail. 

What does ‘being on bail’ mean?

Being on bail means being released from custody while awaiting trial or further legal proceedings, subject to certain conditions set by the police or court. When a person is granted bail, they are allowed to remain out of prison temporarily, often on the condition that they adhere to specific requirements which can include various restrictions, such as regularly reporting to the police, surrendering their passport, refraining from contacting certain individuals, or adhering to a curfew.

The purpose of bail is to ensure that the accused appears in court for their trial and does not pose a risk to the public or interfere with the legal process.

How long can you be on bail in the UK?

In the UK, individuals can remain on bail for a maximum of 12 months without being charged, provided there is approval from the Magistrates Court.

The initial bail period lasts for 3 months. Previously set at 28 days, this duration was extended under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, effective from October 28, 2022. 

Extensions can be made to 6 months, and then, with authorisation by a Superintendent, to 9 months. Any further extension beyond this requires approval from the Magistrates’ Court.

What happens when bail expires?

If you’ve been granted police bail, it will expire when the police:

  1. Charge you with a crime.
  2. Release you without charges or no further action (NFA) the case
  3. Release you under investigation (RUI’d)

If you’re on court bail, it will end when:

  1. Your case is dismissed or discontinued (e.g. if the CPS opts not to press charges).
  2. You receive a sentence (if found guilty).
  3. You’re acquitted and informed that “you are free to go.”

At the end of bail period, you’ll either be charged or convicted, RUI’d or NFA’d and will receive further instructions from the police or the court. Alternatively, you may be released without charges or acquitted, allowing you to return to normal life.

Can bail ever be extended?

If the police or the court need more time to investigate your case, they can extend your bail. This often happens in complex investigations or when there are multiple suspects. You’ll be given a new date to return to the police station or court.

If you’re arrested for a new crime while on bail, your original bail will usually be cancelled. You might then be given bail for the new crime, or you might be kept in custody until your trial or first court hearing.

How can Lawtons help?

Lawtons has a dedicated group of solicitors who specialise in criminal defence cases. We have extensive experience handling matters of this nature. Our team is well-prepared to conduct thorough investigations on your behalf and advise you on your legal rights and the applicable laws governing your situation. Get in touch and see how we can help. 

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