Bail is usually set in which phase of trials?

Bail is typically established during the pre-trial phase of the criminal justice process. This phase occurs after an arrest and before the trial itself, where decisions are made regarding the defendant's release or detention prior to trial. Judges assess several factors, including the severity of the charges, the defendant's criminal history, ties to the community, and the risk of flight, to determine an appropriate bail amount. Establishing bail during this phase helps to ensure that defendants who are not a flight risk or a danger to the community can remain free while awaiting trial, thereby maintaining the presumption of innocence.

In contrast, during the jury selection phase, the focus is on finding impartial jurors to hear the case, which does not involve decisions about bail. The sentencing phase occurs after a conviction has taken place and involves determining the consequences for the crime committed, not bail matters. Opening arguments are part of the trial where each side presents their case to the jury, again unrelated to bail decisions. Therefore, the pre-trial phase is the correct context for when bail is set.