What is the main purpose of the Federal Bail Reform Act of 1984?

The main purpose of the Federal Bail Reform Act of 1984 is to allow detention without bail for defendants who are considered dangerous. The Act was implemented to address concerns about public safety and the risk that certain individuals might commit further crimes while released on bail. It provides the legal framework that permits courts to deny bail to defendants deemed a danger to the community or a flight risk, thus ensuring that pretrial release does not jeopardize public safety.

This approach was a significant shift from earlier practices where bail was primarily concerned with ensuring a defendant's appearance in court rather than the safety of the community. By emphasizing the potential danger posed by certain individuals, the Act aims to balance defendants' rights with public safety considerations, allowing for more discretion in bail decisions, particularly for those accused of serious offenses.

The other options either misrepresent the Act's purpose or suggest goals that were not the focus of the legislation. For instance, it does not establish a federal right to bail or eliminate bail requirements, nor does it seek to standardize state practices but rather sets a federal precedent that can influence state-level practices.