Who typically hears bail applications and arraignments in court?

Bail applications and arraignments are typically heard by a Justice of the Peace. This role is particularly significant in the judicial system, as Justices of the Peace often handle initial court proceedings, which include granting bail and conducting arraignments where charges are formally presented to defendants. Their involvement is crucial because they provide a preliminary determination of whether a defendant can be released before trial, balancing the interests of the defendant’s right to liberty with public safety concerns.

While judges can also hear these matters, specifically in more significant cases or higher courts, a Justice of the Peace usually handles these proceedings at a lower court level, hence why they are the correct choice for this question. The roles of the prosecutor and defense attorney are centered around advocating for their respective sides in court rather than presiding over court proceedings, which further supports why Justices of the Peace are the appropriate figures for addressing bail and arraignment matters.