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Most people enjoy having a drink every so often, but whatever great feeling this leads to can dissipate quickly for a person arrested for driving under the influence (DUI). Sadly, thousands of these arrests occur every single day, and most people aren’t even aware that they are over the .08 blood alcohol content (BAC) when they’re pulled over. If you should find yourself in this situation, however, it’s important for you to know the options available.

Penalties of Driving Under the Influence

The penalties of a DUI conviction can be extremely punitive. The consequences that a person faces, however, will differ depending on which state that they’re arrested in. Bail amounts can change by the city or county in which you are pulled over, but DUI penalties are uniform across an entire state. In California, for instance, a person arrested for their first DUI can face up to six months in jail and a $2,600 fine.

It’s important to keep in mind that these penalties will increase if a person has already been convicted of a DUI. The same California arrest will result in up to a year in jail for someone who has already received one prior DUI conviction. Fighting these penalties is essential, but a person first must get out of jail. Having an expert bail agent available from a reputable company like Bail Hotline can help to lessen your incarceration time, and get you back to your job and family so you can work on your defense.

Bail Amounts for Driving Under the Influence

Just like the corresponding penalties, the bail amounts can vary depending on the county in which you are arrested. When it comes to drinking and driving, however, many counties within a state will set their presumptive bail amounts (listed on each jail’s bail schedule) at a very similar amount. Within California, for instance, the counties of San Francisco, Sonoma and Los Angeles all set their DUI bail amount at $5,000.

There are times, however, when these amounts can increase for different localities, and even show huge variances. If a person is arrested for DUI and already has one drinking and driving conviction within ten years in Los Angeles County, for instance, they can face a bail amount of $15,000. The same person arrested in Sonoma on this charge, however, will face a $25,000 amount. Understandably, it can be hard to pay any of these amounts, which is why most defendants opt to contact an agency like Bail Hotline.

Paying Your Bail

A person arrested for DUI has a few choices to make on how their bail is paid. They can either pay the full amount, or submit property worth that amount, which is turned over to the court until the end of the trial; or they can find a bail bond agency to provide a security bond for their release. Using a bail bond agency is usually a better option for because they only charge a small percentage of the full bail amount – in California this number cannot exceed 10 percent.

Those who cover the bail amount on their own will have a large sum of money tied up throughout the trial. As mentioned, this money, or property, isn’t returned until the conclusion of the trial. Add this to the fact that if the court has control of these funds, they might be more likely to add miscellaneous expenses and fees which will be withheld from the total amount deposited.

Luckily, there aren’t many instances where a person will be denied bail for drinking and driving, and if they are, then another, much more serious crime, must have taken place. Knowing the issues related to bail is imperative, and this is especially true for those charged with a DUI. There are numerous possible defenses to this charge, even for those who failed a breathalyzer, so it’s imperative to get out of jail as quickly as possible to start building a strong case. 

Far too many people have felt the dread that comes along with knowing that their friend or relative has been arrested. It oftentimes seems as if we’re powerless to help them since they’re sitting in a jail cell under the county’s jurisdiction. Fortunately, there are ways that we can be of assistance to our friends or loved ones if they are sitting in jail; it just requires a bit of research.

Information About an Inmate Available

First of all, it’s important to get as much information as possible about someone who has been arrested. Luckily, much of the information that ends up being vital is available as public record. Once a person is booked into jail, their name and the crime that they’re charged with, along with the date that they were booked usually becomes available. In fact, in California, it’s even easy to find out a presumed bail amount.

All of these things are important if you want to help a person get out of jail more quickly. Whether the defendant has been arrested in southern, northern or central California, our website provides you with a direct connection to the county jail inmate search – or you can fill out an information form (to the right of this article) and, once submitted, Bail Hotline will contact you!

Are They Really in Jail?

There are some times when a person may not know whether their loved one is actually in jail or not – maybe they didn’t show up to a party, maybe they haven’t been answering their phone. Regardless of the reason which sparked your curiosity, you can find out if your friend or relative has been detained by calling the county jail. If, by some chance, your friend or family member is in custody, a jail employee should be able to provide the aforementioned pieces of vital information.

Visitation Concerns

Some of the other questions you may have will usually be answered differently, depending on the specific jail location. Here are just a few you might want to know:

1. What are the visitation hours?
2. How can I get a Property Release to pick up items from an inmate?
3. Can I supply money for them to use at a commissary?
4. What restrictions, if any, are placed on the visiting party?
5. Are children allowed to accompany me on my visit?
6. What kinds of identification are necessary if I am visiting someone in jail?

Inmate Questions

Unfortunately, some inmates will have to do a little legwork on their own. Luckily, the justice system requires that a person be allowed to make a phone call after being arrested. The rules related to these laws, however, can vary by state. In California, for instance, an arrested individual must be allowed to make at least three phone calls within three hours of their initial arrest – and can many times be made as soon as a person has been booked into jail if they are polite and cooperative.

California law states that the allowed phone calls may be to an attorney (or public defender), a bail bond agency or a relative or other person; this basically means that a defendant can call whomever they want. Many people make their first call to a bail bond agency since that will quickly get the ball rolling for them getting bailed out.

It’s disheartening to have a loved one sitting in county jail, but luckily, in most cases, it’s not necessary for them to stay there very long. America’s criminal justice system is set up in such a way that most accused individuals are able to secure release if they go through the proper channels. Whether these steps are completed by the defendant themselves or a loved one on the outside, it’s simply important that they be performed. 

Most people know that sinking feeling that visits their stomach when they see flashing blue lights in their rear-view mirror. Fortunately, in America, the majority of people arrested for a crime will be eligible for bail, but there are usually conditions that must be abided by for them to be released. Due to the seriousness of these conditions, it’s imperative for everyone to understand them.

What are Bail Conditions?

Bail conditions are exactly what their name implies: conditions of bail. The courts will usually grant bail, and many states – such as California – actually have bail bond schedules that allow a person to post a predetermined bail amount without even having to see a judge. As your local agent at Bail Hotline will tell you, whenever someone receives bail there are always conditions. One of these conditions is that you cannot be charged with more crimes, but in some cases further conditions may apply.

Anyone who watches crime dramas on television has likely seen a judge order a rich offender to surrender their passport as a condition of bail. This is an actual condition that can be imposed, and it’s meant to prevent the accused from fleeing the country. Another condition could be to stay away from a specific person or area.

Still another condition could be to refrain from drinking alcohol. Many of these conditions wouldn’t normally be constitutional to demand, but since bail is seen as a privilege, these conditions can be looked at merely as requests upon which a person’s bail is contingent.
Common Charges that Result in Bail Conditions

There are a variety of charges that can result in bail conditions that are more serious than the usual “don’t break the law again” condition. In cases of stalking or abuse, for instance, a defendant may be required to cease any contact with the alleged victim. In capital cases, a judge will likely require that a person not leave the local area or have contact with anyone involved in the case.

Other crimes, which some may look at as minor compared to the aforementioned, may cause a judge to impose a condition such as drinking alcohol when charged with a DUI. There are also many crimes, such as drug or juvenile offenses, that could require the accused to stay at a particular residence while awaiting trial. It’s important to note, however, that not all of these charges will automatically result in the stated conditions.

Seriousness of Bail Condition Violations

Violation of a condition of bail is a very serious matter, and it can easily result in harsh consequences. Most people who violate these conditions are rearrested and have to wait to see a judge before they can receive bail again – and the judge will not look kindly on the fact that they violated their original conditions.

Another serious repercussion is the fact that new charges may be filed related to the violation, and this can result in an even higher bail amount than the original. Violation of a bail condition, in many cases, will result in the forfeiture of the originally posted bail amount.

Bail conditions are not to be taken lightly. Though the criminal justice system is set up in a way that allows most accused people to wait for their trial outside of jail, the courts will have no problem rescinding this privilege if conditions are violated. Anyone out on bail should fully understand their conditions, or ask their bail bond agent to explain them. This will ensure the best possible outcome for all parties involved.

The United States criminal justice system is set up in such a way that those who are accused of a crime are afforded certain rights. This is necessary since the assumption of innocence is an inherent belief within the system. Bail is one of these rights, but it’s important to recognize that the right to bail isn’t necessarily granted to every individual. Understanding bail is essential to understanding the system as a whole.

What is Bail?

Bail is the deposit of either money or property, in order for a court to allow a person suspected of a crime to be released from jail. This deposit is given as collateral and as a guarantee that the person accused of the crime will show up to all of their court dates. If the suspect absconds or doesn’t attend all court dates, the deposit is usually forfeited. Most generally, a bail bond is secured through a bail agency such as family-owned and operated Bail Hotline, a California company.

The amount paid for a defendant’s bail is returned to the person who posted the money – after the conclusion of the trial. This is usually true regardless of the outcome of the trial. Bail can be paid in full to the court, or a bail bonds agency can sign off on the person’s release for a fee. These fees can vary, but in California it amounts to 10 percent of the total bail amount, and must be paid to the bondsman to secure a release.

The History of Bail in the United States

Before America gained its independence, its colonies used Britain’s long existing bail system. That system had laws, such as the Statute of Westminster, regulating bail that went back as far as the year 1275. Once America was freed from the British monarchy, states began passing their own laws relating to bail.

The Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which outlaws excessive bail, was modeled after Virginia’s state constitution. The Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution also requires that suspects be made aware of the crime that they’re charged with. This allows them to request bail if they’re arrested for a bailable offense. Further laws, such as the Bail Reform Act of 1966, allowed accused persons to be released on personal bonds or on their own recognizance.

Does Everyone get Bail?

Though the Eighth Amendment protects against excessive bail, there is no law that gives the absolute right to receive bail. Bail is meant to be an incentive for a person to return to court. If a judge believes that no amount of money can guarantee a suspect’s return, he or she has the right to remand the defendant to custody until the trial.

Reasons that a judge may believe a suspect’s return is unlikely could be based on the degree of severity of the crime, or the finality of its possible punishments. Additionally, if a judge believes that a suspect is a danger to themselves or others – if they were to be put back amongst the public citizenry – he or she will likely deny bail. Bail is all about risk, and if the risk seems too great a suspect may have to wait out their trial behind bars.

Bail is a way to ensure that people aren’t detained unnecessarily in jail while awaiting trial. Bail laws will vary by state, so anyone facing a trial should do a little research into their state’s specific laws. The majority of Americans are allowed to post bail, and if they can’t afford it, there are bail bond agencies that can assist. Between the bail system and bail bondsmen, there is no reason for any American not being held on severe charges to be confined to jail while awaiting trial.

Bail Hotline  invites you to attend the Dub show in Los Angeles to see hundreds of the hottest custom cars & trucks that will be on display as well as the latest new cars, wheels, auto accessories, apparel, video games and dozens of vendor booths.

Bail Hotline Bail Bonds will be exhibiting at the 2013 Dub Show in Los Angeles on April 7 from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Expert bail agents will be present at the booth to answer questions and provide bail bonds related information. In addition, Bail Hotline’s staff is going to be raffling prices so make sure you stop by.

Bail Hotline invites you to attend the Dub Show to see hundreds of the hottest custom cars & trucks that will be on display as well as the latest new cars, wheels, auto accessories, apparel, video games and dozens of vendor booths. Performing live at the Dub Show on stage Tyga, B.o.B, Big Sean, Kid Ink, Clyde Carson, Chi Town’s Finest and more. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet and greet artists and entertainers.

Attend the Dub Show to meet MMA Supermodels Arianny Celeste and Brittney Palmer. They are going to be signing autographs from 1pm – 3pm inside the Toyo Tires booth.

Dub Show Time and Date

Dub Show Sunday, April 7th from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the LA Convention Center. Get your tickets now.

About Bail Hotline Bail Bonds

With over 27 offices throughout all of California, Bail Hotline Bail Bonds offers thorough and quality assistance to individuals and families 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A family-owned and operated business, Bail Hotline strives to provide the best bail services in both minor and severe situations. If you cannot make it to one of the bail bond offices, Bail Hotline’s mobile service can assist you. Call 1-888-958-1228 or fill out our form for more information. Find a Bail Hotline Bail Bonds location near you.

On Saturday, March 31, Mike Alvarado and Brandon Rios will clash for the WBO junior welterweight title in a rematch of their thrilling collision from last October. The bout will be broadcast live on HBO from the Mandalay Bay Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada.

In their first fight, Brandon “Bam Bam” Rios (31-0-1, 23 KOs) and Mike “Mile High” Alvarado (33-1, 23 KO’s) fought what some have called The Fight of the Year of 2012. On March 30, 2013 from the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, NV, both brawlers will step into the ring once again for a highly anticipated rematch.

Having sponsored numerous professional boxers in the past, Bail Hotline steps up again to sponsors Mike Alvarado Boxing Team.

“We are thrilled to be able to support Mike Alvarado Boxing Team on what will be a very exciting night of boxing,” announced Marco McGuire, Bail Hotline’s VP of Operations. “It’s important for us to endorse competitors who represent their communities as positive role models achieving their dreams and aspirations.”

About Bail Hotline Bail Bonds

With over 25 offices throughout all of California, Bail Hotline Bail Bonds offers thorough and quality assistance to individuals and families 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A family-owned and operated business, Bail Hotline strives to provide the best bail services in both minor and severe situations. If you cannot make it to one the bail bond offices, Bail Hotline’s mobile service can assist you. Call 1-888-958-1228 or fill out our form for more information. Click the link to find a Bail Hotline Bail Bonds location nearest you.

The Harlem Shake trend that has been sweeping over YouTube has come to Bail Hotline’s Corporate office.

The “Harlem Shake” finds one person, usually disguised in a strange mask, bopping to music while those surrounding him ignore him. Then, “the beat drops,” the camera shot cuts, and dozens of people crowd the frame dancing like lunatics. “Harlem Shake is a song recorded by American DJ and producer Baauer. It was released as a free digital download by Mad Decent imprint label Jeffree’s on May 22, 2012.” (Source: Wikipedia)

“The Harlem shake is a dance that originally began in Harlem, New York, in 1981. Since its beginnings it has spread to other urban areas and became popular in music videos. The self-purported inventor of the dance was “Al B”, a Harlem resident. Because of its founder, the dance was originally called the “albee” in Rucker and Harlem, but then later became known as the Harlem shake.

Al B is quoted saying that the dance is “a drunken shake anyway, it’s an alcoholic shake, but it’s fantastic, everybody appreciates it.” He said it comes from the ancient Egyptians and describes it as what the mummies used to do. Because they were all wrapped up, they couldn’t really move, all they could do was shake. Al B states that he has been doing the Harlem shake since 1981. The dance first caught on at the Entertainer’s Basketball Classic or EBC and spread from there to other areas.” (Source: Wikipedia)

We hope you enjoy watching Bail Hotline’s Bail Bonds Harlem Shake edition. Have a nice week!

The Capital Case Defense Seminar (CCDS) is an intensive education opportunity for anyone involved in, or considering taking on, the defense of a capital case. It is designed not only for lawyers, but also for mitigation specialists, paralegals, investigators, and experts working in capital defense.

Bail Hotline Bail Bonds is proud to support the CACJ/CPDA Capital Case Defense Seminar, the largest of its kind in the nation. CCDS is unique in that it offers lectures as well as specialized workshops that give participants the chance to brainstorm and exchange information with other participants.

Experienced practitioners in any jurisdiction and those just entering the field can benefit from the lectures and workshops featuring experienced lawyers and experts, from both California and across the nation. Natasha Minsker, Death Penalty Policy Director of the ACLU of Northern California, will be keynote speaker at the event.

“Being a part of these events showcases our commitment to the attorneys we work hand-in-hand with everyday,“ said Daniel McGuire , CEO of Bail Hotline Bail Bonds. “Furthermore, it is important to keep abreast of criminal law issues, and the CCDS is a perfect forum for this.”

This year the CCDS will also include several sessions addressing felony charges other than capital cases.

About Bail Hotline Bail Bonds

With over 27 offices throughout all of California, Bail Hotline Bail Bonds offers thorough and quality assistance to individuals and families 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A family-owned and operated business, Bail Hotline strives to provide the best bail services in both minor and severe situations. If you cannot make it to one of the bail bond offices, Bail Hotline’s mobile service can assist you. Call 1-888-958-1228 or fill out our form for more information.