© 2025 New Hampshire Public Radio

Persons with disabilities who need assistance accessing NHPR's FCC public files, please contact us at publicfile@nhpr.org.
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Win big during NHPR's Summer Raffle! Purchase your tickets today!

N.H. Supreme Court Hears Case On Bail Reform Statute

JOE GRATZ / FLICKR CREATIVE COMMONS

As lawmakers and law enforcement consider potential changes to the state's bail system, New Hampshire's courts are also deciding how to interpret the existing bail reform law.

The New Hampshire Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday in the case State vs. Christina A. Hill at Windham High School.

Students were invited to watch the hearing as part of the court’s “On the Road” series.

The defendant, Christina Hill, was detained before trial because she could not afford $25,000 in bail. The state argues the judge was allowed to set Hill's bail at an amount she could not afford because of concerns she posed a flight risk.

Under bail reform, judges can hold a person they determine is dangerous without bail. Otherwise, they are supposed to consider what a person could reasonably afford before setting bail.

Hill's lawyers argue because the trial court found Hill was not dangerous, it violated the current bail statute.

A ruling in the case is expected later this year.

I oversee NHPR’s news magazines, Morning Edition and All Things Considered. I support our show producers and hosts in bringing listeners in depth conversations and stories on the latest news and culture in New Hampshire. I believe in community driven storytelling and connecting with Granite Staters to learn more about what it's like for them living in New Hampshire. I’m interested in conversations and stories that show the impact of policy decisions and hold those in power to account.
Related Content

You make NHPR possible.

NHPR is nonprofit and independent. We rely on readers like you to support the local, national, and international coverage on this website. Your support makes this news available to everyone.

Give today. A monthly donation of $5 makes a real difference.