Adult Probation >Victim Services >Victims Rights Glossary Victims Rights Glossary Bail or Bail Bond Monetary sum assessed by a Judge to ensure a criminal defendant, who is being released prior to trial, will appear in court on the trial date. Securities posted are returned when court appearances are satisfied. Bail Bondsman A person licensed by the State and certified by the Clerk of Superior Court, who provides bond or surety to the accused in custody. Bailiff A courtroom assistant to the Judge whose duty is to maintain order in the courtroom and oversees certain courtroom functions including files, jurors, witnesses, and attorneys. Bench Conference A conference between a Judge and attorney regarding a courtroom proceeding, which is not necessarily part of the written court record. Bench Judge or Judges composing a court. Bench Warrant A document issued by a criminal court in which a criminal action is pending because of a defendant's failure to appear. Process issued by the court itself or "from the bench" for the attachment or arrest of a person. Bifurcated Trial Where the issues in a case are divided into two or more hearings or trials. The second hearing/trial does not necessarily use the same jury as the first. In criminal cases, insanity issues may prompt a bifurcated trial. Criminal DUI trials, where the defendant is alleged to have a prior conviction, are often bifurcated trials. In civil cases, you may see medical malpractice trials bifurcated when the liability phase of the trial is separated from the damages phase. And in Domestic Relations, child custody issues may prompt a bifurcated trial. Bind Over After probable cause has been found at a preliminary hearing, the defendant is "bound over" to Superior Court for trial. Booking A police administrative action officially recording an arrest and identifying the person, place, time, the arresting authority, and the reason for the arrest. Brief Written statement explaining facts of case and laws that apply. Burglary Entering or remaining unlawfully in a structure or fenced yard with intent to commit any theft or felony. The crime is worse if the offender does this while possessing explosives, deadly weapon, or dangerous instrument.