Bail Bonds for Petty Theft Charges
A petty theft arrest raises many questions for loved ones. Here is how bail generally works for this kind of charge, and who to ask for case-specific answers.
What a Petty Theft Charge Means
A petty theft charge generally involves taking property of low value. The exact charge, and whether it is treated as a misdemeanor or a felony, varies with the facts and is decided by prosecutors and the court. These are generally misdemeanors with modest bail, and some people are cited and released.
How Bail Is Set for Petty Theft Charges
After booking, bail is usually taken from the county bail schedule, which lists an amount for each type of charge. The judge can change it at a hearing, taking into account the charge, the person's history and other factors. A bondsperson does not set the amount.
A Point to Raise With the Court or Attorney
Many petty theft arrests end in a citation. Check with the facility whether the person was booked or cited.
What to Do Next
- Speak to a criminal defense attorney about the charge and about asking for a bail change
- Call a licensed bondsperson to ask how a bond would work
- Check with the facility for the inmate booking number and the bail amount
- Ask whether the person can be released on the schedule or must see a judge
Before You Call a Bail Agent
Gather what you can from this list before you call:
- The jail or station where the person is held
- The charges, if known
- Your own name and phone number
- The person's full legal name and date of birth
- The booking number, if you have it
Local Help From Bail Bonds Monterey Park Experts
Bail Bonds Monterey Park Experts is based at 220 S. Glendora Ave Suite J, Glendora, CA 91741 and takes calls at (626) 513-8778 (open 24 hours / 7 days). For a petty theft arrest, an agent can explain how bonds work in Los Angeles County, where people are held after an arrest by Monterey Park Police Department, such as Men's Central Jail, and which courthouse, for example Alhambra Courthouse (serving Monterey Park), hears the case.
Good to Know
A bail agent can explain how a bond works and what the written agreement requires of the person who signs. A bail agent cannot give legal advice, predict how a case will end or influence the court. For questions about a charge, speak with a criminal defense attorney.
Is petty theft a bailable offense in California?
In most cases a person arrested on this kind of charge can be offered bail, though some serious charges need a judge's review first. Check with the facility or an attorney about the specific case.
Can a bail agent give advice about a petty theft charge?
A bail agent can explain how a bond works but cannot give legal advice about the charge. A criminal defense attorney can.