Definitions for "Personal recognizance"
Sometimes called own recognizance. A person who promises to appear in court to answer criminal charges can sometimes be released from jail without having to pay bail. This person is said to be released on his or her personal recognizance.
Release upon a personal promise to return to court as required; no money or bail bond is required.
A guarantee of a defendant's appearance in court (a.k.a. own recognizance) based solely on his or her signed promise (no bail bond required).