What should the defense provide at a bail hearing?

At a bail hearing, the defense's main goal is to persuade the court that the accused should be released from detention while awaiting trial. Providing a realistic and workable alternative to detention is crucial because it addresses the court's concerns regarding the risks of flight, reoffending, or public safety. This might include proposing conditions for release, such as supervised release, electronic monitoring, or regular check-ins, which assure the court that the accused can be trusted to comply with judicial conditions while not in custody.

The other options do not directly address the primary purpose of the bail hearing. For instance, while character references (option A) can support the accused's personal reliability, they do not provide a practical solution or alternative for the court to consider. Presenting evidence of innocence (option C) is generally not relevant at this stage, as the bail hearing is not a trial and does not evaluate guilt or innocence. A plea for leniency (option D) may evoke sympathy, but it does not serve as a substantive basis for the court's decision about whether the accused poses a risk if released. Therefore, proposing a viable alternative to detention is the most strategic and appropriate action for the defense during a bail hearing.