What is a "bail order"?

A bail order is a court document that specifies the terms and conditions under which a defendant can be released from custody while awaiting trial. It outlines not only the amount of bail that must be posted but also any specific stipulations that the court may impose, such as travel restrictions, mandatory check-ins, or other requirements aimed at ensuring the defendant's compliance with the judicial process. This document is crucial as it provides clarity and guidance on what is expected of the defendant during the pre-trial period.

In contrast, the other options focus on different processes or documents related to the judicial system. A request for a bail hearing pertains to the defendant seeking the opportunity to argue for a lower bail or to be granted bail in the first place. An agreement between the bail agent and the police does not substantively describe the formal judicial process surrounding bail, but rather the relationship between the bonding agency and law enforcement. A formal statement of charges pertains to the criminal charges the defendant faces, which is unrelated to the terms of their release. Thus, the focus on the specific legal and procedural nature of a bail order makes it the correct answer.