recognizance

Plural: recognizances

Noun

• (law) a security entered into before a court with a condition to perform some act required by law; on failure to perform that act a sum is forfeited
• A form of bail; a promise made by the accused to the court that they will attend all required judicial proceedings and will not engage in further illegal activity or other prohibited conduct as set by the court.
• A token; a symbol; a pledge.
• Acknowledgment of a person or thing; avowal; profession; recognition.

Examples

• The defendant was released on his own recognizance.

Synonyms

recognisance

Related Words

recognizant