Bail.

Existing law provides that in setting, reducing, or denying bail, a judge or magistrate is required to consider the protection of the public, the seriousness of the offense charged, the previous criminal record of the defendant, and the probability of his or her appearing at trial or at a hearing of the case. Existing law also provides that public safety is the primary consideration in setting, reducing, or denying bail. Existing law authorizes a court to employ an investigative staff for the purpose of recommending whether a defendant should be released on his or her own recognizance. This bill would provide that in setting, reducing, or denying bail, a judge or magistrate may consider the report prepared by that staff. This bill would also make technical, nonsubstantive changes to these provisions.