Bail Bonds for Theft Charges
Facing a theft charge, or helping someone who is? This guide lay outs bail in California in plain language.
Understanding a Theft Arrest
A theft charge generally involves taking another person's property without permission. 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. The value of the property and the person's record affect the amount.
How Bail Is Set for Theft Charges
Bail for a charge like this usually comes from the county bail schedule at first. At a hearing a judge may raise, lower or keep that amount, and some charges must be reviewed by a judge before any release. The court sets bail, not the bondsperson.
Practical Tip for Families
Ask how the value of the property is being counted, since it can affect the level of the charge.
After Booking: What Families Can Do
- 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
- 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
Details to Gather First
Having these details ready helps a bail agent look up the case:
- 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 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 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 theft charge?
A bail agent can explain how a bond works but cannot give legal advice about the charge. A criminal defense attorney can.