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Measures · 02 Editorial guide

Detention, bail & measures

The measure is the clock. Merits arguments come after status is named.

First job Identify the current measure and the next review point before arguing the merits.

Start here

Treat the measure as a clock

Release applications are time-sensitive. This is not an injury-damages calendar.

Open the bail guide

Start here

Key considerations

The first questions are about urgency, governance and preservation — before collection expands or interviews begin.

  1. What measure is in place?
  2. When was it imposed?
  3. Has a release or bail application been made?

Decision map

Keep the question bounded.

  1. Name the measureDetention, arrest, residential surveillance, or other.
  2. Name the clockReview and application points as currently understood.
  3. Counsel filesThis hub does not apply for bail.

Timeline

Sequence and clocks that change the next action.

  1. NowWhere the person is, and who may visit or instruct counsel.
  2. Next reviewThe next procedural point that may change the measure.

Quick answers

Need the short version? Start with one narrow question.

These explainers answer one question. They do not replace this topic route or a deep guide.

Quick AnswerCriminal Detention in ChinaCriminal detention (刑事拘留) is a PSB compulsory measure before arrest approval. Clock, notice and counsel access matter from day one. Reviewed 6 Sep 2026.Quick AnswerArrest in ChinaArrest (逮捕) in PRC criminal procedure is procuratorate-approved custody after detention review — not the US ‘you are under arrest’ moment at the scene. Reviewed 6 Sep 2026.Quick AnswerRelease Pending Trial in ChinaRelease pending trial (取保候审) is a compulsory measure allowing non-custodial investigation under conditions — not US cash bail. Reviewed 6 Sep 2026.

Curated resources

Open the asset that matches this job.

01
Guide

China criminal procedure and defense guide

National procedure desk for foreign nationals — not a civil damages map.

02
Guide

Bail and pre-trial release in Chinese criminal procedure

Measures and release applications as a clock file.

03
Guide

Criminal bail and detention: a foreigner’s guide

Detention and bail orientation for foreign nationals.

Helpful to prepare

Facts that make the next conversation clearer.

These items are orientation aids, not a legal requirement list.

Measure type, if knownDate it began, if knownCounsel already instructed

Local context

Add the city when the bureau or court is local.

Public-security, procuratorate and court practice differ after the national procedural status is identified.

Open city and province guides

Counsel hand-off

Need criminal-defense counsel?

This hub organises procedure. It does not represent anyone, obtain bail or speak to investigators on your facts. For detention, use the consultation form’s emergency path.

Find criminal-defense counsel

Submit an initial enquiry

Need qualified counsel?

Move carefully. Move with a record.

Use the portal to identify counsel for this practice and related China-side issues.

Find criminal-defense counselSubmit an initial enquiry