WorldAugust 27, 2026

recognizance

ri-KOG-ni-zuhns

Definition

A legal agreement in which a person is released from custody after promising to appear in court for future proceedings without paying a cash bail.

Etymology

Derived from the Old French 'reconoistre,' meaning to recognize or acknowledge. It entered legal English to describe a formal acknowledgment of a debt or obligation to the court.

In the news

Denzel Kenley was released on a recognizance bond following his criminal charges, meaning he was not required to pay bail to remain free while awaiting trial.

Juvenile court officer charged in deadly hit-and-run remains employed by Franklin Co.

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myfox28columbus.com

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