Third-party custodians.

Sometimes, the magistrate judge will want the assistance of a third-party custodian as a condition of release. A third-party custodian is typically a family member or close friend who appears in court and promises to cooperate with the Probation Department and report any violations. If a third-party custodian is offered, it is best for that person to appear in person at the detention hearing. The third-party custodian may be asked to sign a document promising to report violations and assist you in complying with the conditions of release.