How Does Bail Work: California Law

The Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith

If you or a loved one has been arrested in California, navigating the bail process can be confusing and overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain how bail works in California, including the different types of bail, the factors determining bail amounts, and what happens if a defendant fails to appear in court.

What is Bail?

Bail is a financial guarantee that defendants will appear for their scheduled court dates after being released from custody. When a person is arrested and charged with a crime, they may be held in jail until their case is resolved or until they post bail.

The purpose of bail is to ensure that the defendant returns to court while also allowing them to remain free during the legal process.

Types of Bail in California

There are several types of bail available in California:

  1. Cash Bail: The defendant or someone on their behalf pays the full bail amount in cash directly to the court.
  2. Bail Bond: The defendant or someone on their behalf pays a non-refundable fee (usually 10% of the total bail amount) to a bail bond company, which then posts a surety bond with the court for the full bail amount.
  3. Property Bond: The defendant or someone on their behalf pledges real property (such as a house) as collateral for the bail amount. The court can seize the property if the defendant fails to appear in court.
  4. Own Recognizance (OR) Release: In some cases, the court may release the defendant on their own recognizance without requiring any bail payment. This typically happens when the defendant is deemed a low flight risk and has strong ties to the community.

How Bail Amounts are Determined

Bail amounts in California are set according to a county-wide bail schedule, a list of predetermined bail amounts for various crimes. Judges have the discretion to deviate from the bail schedule based on factors such as:

  • The severity of the alleged crime
  • The defendant’s criminal history
  • The likelihood that the defendant will appear in court
  • The potential danger to public safety if the defendant is released

Sometimes, a judge may deny bail altogether if they believe the defendant poses a significant flight risk or danger to the community.

The Bail Bond Process

If a defendant chooses to use a bail bond company, the process typically works like this:

  1. The defendant or a representative contacts a licensed bail bond agent.
  2. The bail bond agent collects personal and case information and a non-refundable fee (usually 10% of the total bail amount).
  3. The bail bond agent posts a surety bond with the court for the entire bail amount.
  4. The defendant is released from custody and must appear at all court dates.

If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bail bond company is responsible for paying the full bail amount to the court. The company may seek to recover this amount from the defendant or any co-signers on the bail bond contract.

Related Terms: bail bondsman, bail bonds, bail money, bail bonds work, posting bail, bail hearing, bail bond agency, post cash bail, pay bail bonds, judge deny bail, misdemeanor or felony crime,

What Happens if a Defendant Fails to Appear in Court?

If a defendant posts bail and then fails to appear for a scheduled court date, the consequences can be severe:

  • The court may issue a bench warrant for the defendant’s arrest.
  • The defendant may forfeit the entire bail amount.
  • If a bail bond was used, the bail bond company may send a bounty hunter to locate and arrest the defendant.
  • The defendant may face additional criminal charges for failing to appear in court.

Bail and California’s Criminal Justice System

California’s bail system has been scrutinized in recent years, with critics arguing that it unfairly penalizes low-income defendants and perpetuates racial disparities in the criminal justice system. In 2018, California passed Senate Bill 10 to eliminate cash bail and replace it with a risk-assessment system. However, the implementation of this law was put on hold after the bail bond industry successfully petitioned for a referendum on the issue.

As of 2023, cash bail remains in use throughout California, although some jurisdictions have implemented reforms to make the system more equitable. For example, some counties now offer pre-trial services that allow defendants to be released on their recognizance or with non-monetary conditions, such as electronic monitoring or drug testing.

Tips for Navigating the Bail Process

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in California, here are some tips to keep in mind when navigating the bail process:

Understand the charges: Make sure you understand the specific charges and potential penalties you are facing, as this will impact the bail amount and your legal strategy.

Consider your options: Evaluate whether cash bail, a bail bond, or a property bond is the most feasible option based on your financial situation and the bail amount.

Choose a reputable bail bond company: If you decide to use a bail bond, research and choose a licensed, reputable company with a track record of good customer service.

Attend all court dates: Make sure to attend all scheduled court appearances, as failing to do so can result in forfeiting your bail and facing additional criminal charges.

Consult with a criminal defense attorney: An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the bail process, protect your rights, and build a strong defense strategy.

The Bottom Line

Bail is a critical component of California’s criminal justice system, allowing defendants to remain free while their case is pending. Understanding how bail works, including the different types of bail, the factors determining bail amounts, and the consequences of failing to appear in court, is essential for anyone facing criminal charges in California.

While the state’s bail system has been the subject of ongoing debate and reform efforts, it remains in place as of 2023. Suppose you or a loved one is navigating the bail process. In that case, it’s important to carefully consider your options, choose a reputable bail bond company if needed, and consult with a skilled criminal defense attorney to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Here are real case law examples and short definitions with examples related to how bail works in California:

Real Case Law Examples

In re Humphrey (2021) 11 Cal.5th 135:

  1. The California Supreme Court held that the state’s cash bail system violates due process and equal protection rights under the California Constitution. The court ruled that judges must consider a defendant’s ability to pay when setting bail and that detention should only be used when necessary to protect public safety or ensure an appearance in court.

In re Avignone (2018) 26 Cal.App.5th 195:

  1. The California Court of Appeal held that a defendant’s bail cannot be revoked solely because they used a bail bond to post bail. The court emphasized that the purpose of bail is to ensure a defendant’s appearance, not to punish them for using a bail bond.

People v. Accredited Surety & Casualty Co. (2019) 34 Cal.App.5th 891:

  1. The California Court of Appeal held that a bail bond company must be given notice and an opportunity to be heard before a court can forfeit a bail bond due to a defendant’s failure to appear. The court stressed the importance of due process rights for bail bond companies.

Definitions and Examples

Cash Bail

  • Definition: A type of bail where the defendant or someone on their behalf pays the full bail amount in cash directly to the court.
  • Example: John is arrested, and his bail is $10,000. He pays the full $10,000 in cash to the court and is released from custody.

Bail Bond

  • Definition: A type of bail where the defendant or someone on their behalf pays a non-refundable fee (usually 10% of the total bail amount) to a bail bond company, which then posts a surety bond with the court for the entire bail amount.
  • Example: Sarah is arrested, and her bail is $50,000. She pays a $5,000 non-refundable fee to a bail bond company, then posts a $50,000 surety bond with the court, and Sarah is released from custody.

Own Recognizance (OR) Release

  • Definition: A type of pretrial release where the court allows the defendant to be released without requiring any bail payment, typically when the defendant is deemed a low flight risk and has strong ties to the community.
  • Example: Mike is arrested for a minor offense and has no criminal history. The judge releases him on his own recognizance and requires him to sign a promise to appear in court for all scheduled hearings.

Failure to Appear (FTA)

  • Definition: When a defendant does not show up for a scheduled court appearance after being released on bail or their recognizance.
  • Example: Lisa is released on a $25,000 bail bond but fails to appear for her court date. The court issued a bench warrant for her arrest, and the bail bond company is now responsible for paying the entire $25,000 to the court if she is not located.

Bail Forfeiture

  • Definition: When a court keeps the full bail amount paid by a defendant or bail bond company because the defendant failed to appear in court or violated the conditions of their release.
  • Example: David posts a $15,000 cash bail but fails to appear for trial. The court forfeits the $15,000 and issues a warrant for David’s arrest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is bail?

A: Bail is a financial guarantee that defendants will appear for their scheduled court dates after being released from custody.

Q: What are the different types of bail in California?

A: The main types of bail in California are cash bail, bail bonds, property bonds, and own recognizance (OR) release.

Q: How are bail amounts determined in California?

A: Bail amounts in California are set according to a county-wide bail schedule, but judges can deviate from the schedule based on factors such as the severity of the alleged crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and the likelihood that the defendant will appear in court.

Q: What happens if a defendant fails to appear in court after posting bail?

A: If a defendant fails to appear in court after posting bail, the court may issue a bench warrant for their arrest, forfeit the bail amount, and the defendant may face additional criminal charges.

Q: Can a bail bond company help me if I can’t afford to pay the full bail amount?

A: Yes, a bail bond company can post a surety bond with the court on your behalf in exchange for a non-refundable fee, typically 10% of the total bail amount.

Q: Is bail always required in California?

A: No, in some cases, defendants may be released on their own recognizance without requiring any bail payment, particularly if they are deemed a low flight risk and have strong ties to the community.

If This, Then That

  1. If a defendant posts cash bail and appears for all their court dates, the full bail amount will be returned to them after the case, regardless of the outcome.
  2. If a defendant uses a bail bond company to post bail and appears for all their court dates, then the 10% fee paid to the bail bond company is non-refundable, even if the defendant is found not guilty or the charges are dropped.
  3. If a defendant is released on their recognizance and fails to appear for a court date, the court may issue a bench warrant for their arrest and impose additional criminal charges.
  4. If a defendant posts a property bond and fails to appear for a court date, then the court may seize the property used as collateral for the bond.
  5. Suppose a judge determines that a defendant poses a significant flight risk or danger to the community. In that case, the judge may deny bail altogether, requiring the defendant to remain in custody until their case is resolved.
  6. If a defendant violates any conditions of their release while out on bail, such as failing a drug test or contacting a victim, the court may revoke their bail and return them to custody.

These real case law examples and definitions with examples provide a clear and concise overview of how bail works in California, including the different types of bail, the consequences of failing to appear in court, and the legal principles that govern the bail system.

Client Reviews

James Arrasmith is one smart attorney! He understood my problem and came up with a great solution right away. I can depend on him to listen and ask the right questions to get straight to my issues. His availability is...

Alan Murphy

Hiring James to handle my eviction / landlord tenant case is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. He assisted me every step of the way and made the process smooth and easy. It was obvious that he truly cared about...

Monica Martínez alvarado

I've had a lot of attorneys in my life, and James is by far the best attorney that I've ever hired. He helped me with my case from start to finish and clearly explained the process to me without making it overly complex...

DD M

Great consultation, efficient, attorney. I needed possession of my home, Mr. Arrasmith acted swiftly and was able to provide me the information I needed to understand what could have been a lengthy process. Mr...

Nadia Faraci

James is an amazing attorney!! I had never hired a lawyer before (and was very nervous), but James took hours of his time to explain the entire procedure to me. He gave me a thorough consultation, and I was so impressed...

Ledi

James was the only person to answer the phone at 7am on a Saturday morning. My first phone call to him was as a scared and stressed woman with no idea on where to even begin to explain the sort of help I needed. James...

Renae Elise

James helped me with two landlord tenant issues. In both cases, I was able to expeditiously resolve my issue with the tenant. I appreciate his genuine care for his clients; a rare trait in an attorney. I would highly...

theresa26 r

I cannot begin to describe how amazing and reassuring it was to have James guide me through the most challenging moment of my life. When my mother let me know she would soon be passing from cancer and wanted to leave...

Tricia Matsis

James Arrasmith did a great job for me on my legal matter. From the first time I talked to him he was very professional and knew what he was talking about. I would recommend James Arrasmith to anyone who needs help with...

Alvin Warren

I can't express enough how much James put my heart at ease. He has really been dugiligant at getting things done vs what I have experienced before using other lawyers. Highly recommend James if your looking for trust...

Jeremy Rasmussen Finnif Skate

James Arrasmith is a fantastic attorney. He is respectful and knowledgeable! Always very responsive and really takes his time explaining everything so you can understand it. I would highly recommend you meet with James...

Andrew Noseworthy

Mr. Arrasmith was cocounsel on a complex case, but was able persuade a notoriously bad judge to go along with the resolution. He’s a fine lawyer that works hard to make sure he is prepared to win the case. I highly...

James Pearson

Highly recommend choosing James. He was extremely responsive always making sure I understood every step of the process. In addition, he would periodically check in with me before important decisions needed to be made.

Tulsi

He is experts and reasonable attorney.

Ahmad Ali Shinwary

Best attorney I ever worked with... he takes time to explain the whole process and and will make sure you are happy with his work. We did a living trust and he helped me with an eviction case. I highly recommend him!

Alina Cojocari

James is an excellent attorney. I recommend him to anyone who's looking for someone who cares and wants to help win their case! :)

Allen Esealuka

I had a few questions about my situation, I needed some legal advice so I went ahead and contacted the Arrasmith firm. James was very helpful and polite, I asked him about a dozen questions and will be pursuing llegal...

Amber Styles

I cannot begin to describe how amazing and reassuring it was to have James guide me through the most challenging moment of my life. When my mother let me know she would soon be passing from cancer and wanted to leave her...

Tricia

James is a professional with outstanding customer service. We hired him to take care of an issue for us and he delivered as promised. I highly recommend him if you have any ongoing legal issues. James it's absolute...

Aztec Gold99

He will go out of his way . The best lawyer in Sacramento!I don’t know what I would do without lawyer james.

Bryan

Very professional, understanding and willing to assist in any way he can. I am most definitely keeping James as my one stop shop lawyer.

Brad Naylor

I am so happy I found Mr. Arrasmith's law firm! I couldn't have been happier with my decision to hire James. He took my case from point A to point Z and kept me informed every step of the way. If I ever need an attorney...

Bryce Colburn

James is a wonderful addition to the legal community. He is hard working, bright and ethical. He goes the extra mile for his clients.

Caitlin Ross

He was a great attorney.

Devon Campbell

I contacted Mr. Arrasmith regarding a disability related inquiry for a family member. Mr. Arrasmith provided excellent and immediate responses to my questions. I felt as though he truly cared about the well being of my...

Anonymous

Great consultation, efficient, & positive attorney. I needed possession of my home, Mr. Arrasmith acted swiftly and was able to provide me the information I needed to understand what could have been a lengthy process...

Nadia

I had a few questions about my situation, I needed some legal advice so I went ahead and contacted the Arrasmith firm. James was very helpful and polite, I asked him about a dozen questions and will be pursuing llegal...

Amber

James is a great guy. He has helped me to start a very difficult case. That I was nervous to do. He has made me Confident that he will fight hard on my case.

Rachel

I am so happy I made a decision to hire James to help me with my case. He was very professional and assisted me every step of the way. I was able to get a very positive settlement on my case. I couldn’t be happier!

Ledi

James has helped me tremendously with my legal matter by going over all the forms with me and clearly explaining how to complete them. He has made everything easy for me. I am very glad I called James!

Patty

James did a great job helping us with getting our settlement. Followed up in timely manners and updates always provided. Thank you for your help!

Anonymous

Gave James smith a call late at night with an immediate answer, he is very quick to respond and was eager to answer any questions I had.

Erika

Mr. Arrasmith was great, he answered all my questions and was very helpful with my legal matter. Thanks again James.

Alvin

Mr. Arrasmith was great, he answered all my questions and was very helpful with my legal matter. Thanks again James.

Alvin

Mr. Arrasmith was cocounsel on a complex case, but was able persuade a notoriously bad judge to go along with the resolution. He’s a fine lawyer that works hard to make sure he is prepared to win the case. I highly...

James

I've had a lot of attorneys in my life, and James is by far the best attorney that I've ever hired. He helped me with my case from start to finish and clearly explained the process to me without making it overly complex...

Darren

James is a great lawyer! He is honest and very trustworthy. He will give you sound legal advice.

Jason Motto

Great service and customer service. Very professional too, thanks James and Maria!! Having a bilingual attorney who knows so many different aspects of the law is a BIG plus.

JC R

I found James online after an extensive search. He was knowledgeable and worked with me on a payment plan I could afford. I'm happy I picked him for dealing with my awful landlord. He helped me get the settlement I...

Jenn C

Lawyer James Arrasmith For me He very was very approachable and likeable as a person . I felt very comfortable with the knowledge, and information shared for our case. which we got desired result from. He to me is a...

John Davis

James is a wonderful lawyer and person! He is hardworking , ethical, quick and effective lawyer! He knows what he is doing.

Ka Saelee

James Arrasmith always does amazing job helping me with my landlord and tenant cases!! He is my go-to attorney when I need assistance in evicting tenants. I like how he also represents tenants as well as landlords - so...

Kerry Davis

No one likes to need an attorney, but when you do, James is amazing to have in your corner! He is smart, professional, patient, and always makes sure his client is comfortable and confident with the next steps. I refer...

Kristen Trexler

Best lawyer he will get the job done went out of his way totally

Larry Yabut

Mr. Arrasmith and his team are amazing. Mr. Arrasmith is very knowledgeable and has been amazing through our whole process. He treats people like a human being and not a paycheck, I would highly recommend him to...

Magan Mellinger

No one likes to need an attorney, but when you do, James is amazing to have in your corner! He is smart, professional, patient, and always makes sure his client is comfortable and confident with the next steps. I refer...

Kristen

I would highly recommend James. I did lots of research searching for a great Attorney in the area. He makes you feel hopeful during a difficult times. His knowledge and expertise was great!

Maria Guardado

I had a personal issue and needed to consult with a lawyer. James Arrasmith took his time to explain everything so that I could understand exactly what my options were and the best way to go about my next move. I would...

Mark Hodges

A Very Nice, Personable Attorney/Person!! He is Very Patient and Willing to Listen to My {Tour} Case/Problems>I would Highly Recommend James to Anyone Seeking Fair and Equitable Justice!! Mark, CA.

Mark Loeffler

Thank you Mr James for helping me. What a great attorney! If you need help call Mr Arrowsmith!

Marva Davis

I give James Arrowsmith Attorney at Law 5 stars not just because he supports and represents CAED (our Non- Profit Organization that works with children ) but also because of how decent a person I've found him ...

Marvell Wilson

I was sooooo nervous about my case until I called James. He literally made the entire process simple and easy for me. I cannot recommend him highly enough! He is the most amazing attorney I’ve ever had!

Peyton

James has helped me tremendously with my legal matter by going over all the forms with me and clearly explaining how to complete them. He has made everything easy for me. I am very glad I called James!

Patsa Hin-udom

I am Latina and my English is not very good, therefore the attorney made sure that there was an assistant who spoke Spanish and who translated everything he told me and answered all my questions. Excellent service, I...

Paula Barriga

James is fantastic! He answered all of my questions and gave me clear guidance. If you are looking for an experienced and knowledgable attorney, I highly recommend James. Amazing Lawyer!

peyton cooks

James has a very good heart. He takes his cases personally as if it was him. He is a very nice understanding guy

Rachel Ottley

James is very knowledgeable, professional, and dependable. He patiently guided me through my estate planning and pre-nuptial questions, and made both processes much easier for me to understand. Highly recommended.

Sanat Sahasrabudhe

James arasmith is an excellent attorney when I needed help or advice he was always there to answer my calls or emails a very kind person listens & cares.

Tariq Johnson

Thank you so much for being highly responsive. Making I understand every step of the process. As well as checking in with me before important decisions need to be made.

Tulsi Patel

Very friendly, personable, and professional. I was able to get through my legal issue relatively smoothly and had exceptional support through the entire process. Pricing was reasonable and the billing process was not...

V Cat

I had some legal questions, and contacted James Arrasmith Law firm. His response was quick, and very helpful.

vera vlasenko

I highly recommend James Arrasmith. He really listens to your needs & truly cares about his clients. He is very professional & provides great results!

Vicky Tisdale

Contact Us Now

(916) 704-3009