How Bail Is Set in California

General information on how bail is set in california, written for relatives and friends of someone in custody.

Overview

Bail is usually set from a county bail schedule, which lists an amount for each type of charge. After an arrest, jail staff look up the charge on the schedule to find the amount.

What This Means for Families

Amounts differ between counties and the schedule is revised from time to time. Check the current schedule with the court or the jail.

Key Points

The judge can raise, lower or change bail at a hearing. The judge may consider the charge, the person's history, the risk of missing court and public safety.

Details to Gather First

A bail agent needs these details to look up a case:

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
The jail or station where the person is held

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 how bail is set in california, 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.