Bail Bonds for Shoplifting Charges
A shoplifting 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.
Understanding a Shoplifting Arrest
A shoplifting charge generally involves taking goods from a store without paying. 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 often misdemeanors, but the value and record matter.
Bail and Shoplifting 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
Ask whether the store has asked for restitution, which the attorney may be able to address with the prosecutor.
After Booking: What Families Can Do
- Ask whether the person can be released on the schedule or must see a judge
- 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
Details to Gather First
A bail agent needs these details to look up a case:
- The booking number, if you have it
- 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
How Bail Bonds Monterey Park Experts Can Help
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 shoplifting 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.
Keep in Mind
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 shoplifting 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 shoplifting charge?
A bail agent can explain how a bond works but cannot give legal advice about the charge. A criminal defense attorney can.