ISSUE:
Whether successive bail applications by the same accused in the same case should be placed before the same judge who decided the previous application?
Whether the application for bail of a co-accused should be placed before the same judge who decided the bail application of another accused in the same crime?
Whether the registry must ensure that successive bail applications are assigned appropriately to prevent forum shopping?
RULE:
Successive bail applications by the same accused in the same case must be placed before the same judge who decided the previous bail application, if available, to maintain judicial discipline, prevent forum shopping, and ensure consistency in judicial decisions.
A co-accused’s bail application need not be placed before the same judge who decided the bail application of another accused in the same case, as the subject matter of each accused's bail plea may differ.
The registry must ensure that successive bail applications are assigned correctly, and both the defense and prosecution must disclose previous bail applications and orders to maintain judicial propriety and prevent abuse of the legal process.