Bail Set Too Low After First-Degree Assault With Two Weapons. Why?
Pierce County, Washington attorney Spencer Freeman calls a $5,000 bond on a first-degree (Class A felony) assault case shocking—the suspect had fired a gun while under a protection order barring firearms, where historically bail ran $100,000–$200,000. He attributes it to bail-reform trends and notes the county can't be sued: judges have judicial immunity for such decisions.
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Answered by Spencer Freeman · Pierce County, WA
Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the $5,000 bond shocking?
Because it was set on a first-degree assault case where the suspect fired a gun—two deadly weapons—when historically bail on such a case ran $100,000 to $200,000.
Was the suspect already restricted?
Yes—he was under a Superior Court protection order barring firearms at the time, which made the low bond all the more striking.
Can the county be sued over it?
No—judges have judicial immunity for such decisions, so the county can't be sued for the bail that was set.
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