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All Legal Journeys
Criminal Law
England & Wales
5 stages
Hours to weeks
Reviewed 2026-05-22
Bail application journey
Police bail, magistrates' bail application, and Crown Court / High Court appeals.
Who Uses This Journey
Defendants in custody seeking bail, or those wanting to vary bail conditions.
Stage-by-Stage Timeline
1
1
Police bail (Custody Sergeant)
Decision to grant or refuse pre-charge bail under PACE.
2
2
First court appearance
Magistrates decide bail or remand. Bail Act 1976 presumption of bail, subject to exceptions.
3
3
Defence application
Up to 2 fully argued applications at Magistrates' Court (further applications require change of circumstances).
4
4
Crown Court appeal
If bail refused, appeal to Crown Court within strict timeframe.
Possible Outcomes
- Bail granted (conditional or unconditional)
- Bail refused
- Remand
5
5
High Court appeal
Last resort — High Court judge in chambers.