OTHER DUI/DWI RESOURCES

Bail Bonds in California

Whether you or a cherished one is in prison for DUI in California (driving under the influence of drugs) or murder, a misdemeanor or a felony, one of the foremost priorities is to get the accused let off from custody.

Release may be by way of a straightforward promise to appear, also known as being let off O.R., or on one's own recognizance. Yet, for more grave misdemeanors or felonies, or where the criminated has a prior record, posting bail may be needed to get release.

Most counties in California have a "bail hearing", which is simply a list of various Penal Code, Vehicle Code, and Health and Safety Code violations, and a corresponding bail amount. These are the "presumptive" bail amounts, but the actual amount of bail can be deviated either higher or lower, depending on the reality of the case and the background of the accused.

The function of setting bail is two-fold: it is to make sure the presence of the criminated at future court proceedings, and it is also to protect the community. There are many elements to think about: The bail schedule, gravity of the offense, earlier criminal record of the accused, whether the defendant has ties to the community, owns material goods, or is in a job, and many others.

Bail is a intricate issue, and there are many special rules that apply to certain types of cases. For example, in a DUI (drunk driving) case in California, an accused will not be let off until ample time has passed for their blood alcohol concentration to drop below certain levels. In domestic violence cases, even misdemeanors, or release is banned by the arresting group. In cases involving drugs, or criminal enterprises that were claimed to have made money for those accused, a source of bail hearing may be needed. This is a hearing where the defendant must explain that the money used to set his or her release is not the fruit of criminal manners.

Once bail has been set, it may be posted in one of some ways: Cash bail; Government bonds or Real Property; or a Bail Bond. The last is the most commonly used.

An skilled bail bondsman provides an invaluable service. In exchange for the bondsman's fee (which is usually 10% of the amount of the bond, with or without collateral), a good quality bondsman will forego sleep for going to a law enforcement station or county jail, filling out needed paperwork, and even driving the incriminated home and making sure that they have a hot meal on the way.

Our lawyers in California work with the best, most dedicated bail bondsmen in the business. Like our offices, these bondsmen are dedicated to providing the best possible service, and giving their clients excellent value for their investment. If someone you care about has been arrested, or needs to bail out of jail, you can call on them for immediate assistance.