If you or a loved one is facing a criminal charge in Los Angeles, understanding the Los Angeles County felony bail schedule is crucial. Bail is an amount of money or property that a defendant can offer to the court to ensure their appearance at court hearings. In Los Angeles, the bail amount for a felony charge is set by the Los Angeles felony bail schedule, which is also known as the California felony bail schedule.
The bail schedule takes into account the severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and the likelihood that the defendant will flee if released on bail. Judges use the bail schedule as a guideline when setting bail, but they also have the discretion to deviate from the bail schedule if they deem it necessary.
What Are the Bail Amounts For Crimes?
The Los Angeles, CA, felony bail schedule outlines the bail amounts for specific crimes. For instance, under the penal code, grand theft carries a bail amount of $20,000 in Los Angeles County, while embezzlement carries the same bail amount. However, bail amounts for more serious crimes such as murder, rape, and kidnapping can be as high as $1 million or more.
How Can You Make Bail?
The felony bail schedule in California states that when it comes to posting bail, there are two options: cash bail or a bail bond. With cash bail, the defendant or someone on their behalf pays the full amount of bail in cash to the court. If the defendant attends all court hearings, the money is returned at the conclusion of the case, minus any administrative fees. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bail money is forfeited, and a warrant for their arrest is issued.
On the other hand, a bail bond is a promise made by a bail bond company to pay the bail amount on behalf of the defendant. Typically, the defendant or their representative will pay the company a non-refundable fee, usually 10% of the total bail amount. The company then assumes responsibility for ensuring that the defendant attends all court hearings. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bail bond company is responsible for paying the full bail amount to the court.
If you decide to use a bail bond company, it’s essential to choose a reputable one. Make sure to check if the company is licensed by the California Department of Insurance and has a good reputation among previous clients. My Bail Hotline is here to help.
What Do You Do If You Can’t Post Bail?
If you’re unable to post bail, there may be other options available to you. You may be eligible for a bail hearing to argue for a lower bail amount or pretrial release, which allows you to be released from custody without posting bail. Pretrial release programs typically require regular check-ins with a pretrial services officer and may include other conditions such as drug testing or electronic monitoring.
Takeaways
Facing a felony charge in Los Angeles can be stressful and overwhelming, but having a good criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the legal process and achieve the best possible outcome. If you have prior convictions, a skilled criminal defense attorney can help you present a strong case for lower bail or pretrial release. Understanding the Los Angeles bail schedule and the bail process can help you be released from custody as soon as possible while awaiting trial.
In summary, the Los Angeles County felony bail schedule outlines the bail amounts for specific crimes. Bail can be posted through cash bail or a bail bond. It’s important to choose a reputable bail bond company and understand all the fees involved.
If you’re unable to post bail, you may be eligible for a bail hearing or pretrial release. Having a good criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the legal process and achieve the best possible outcome.
