It is typically possible to post bail when you’re facing felony charges in California, but it isn’t always easy to do so.

The severity of felony charges means that bail amounts are set much higher than for misdemeanors. Police will also typically confiscate belongings and limit access to things like communications and research after arrest. 

Whether you or your loved one are facing felony charges, this can be a terrifying and uncertain time. Understanding that you can post bail, and considering the best ways to do that, can provide at least some comfort during an otherwise terrible experience. 

Felony vs Misdemeanor Charges in California

Bail in the state of California is typically set between $10,000-$100,000. For the most severe crimes, bail can even be set at over $ 1 million. The amount at which a judge sets bail will depend on factors including your income, your perceived flight risk, and, often most pressingly, the severity of your crime.

Felony charges that are more severe than misdemeanor charges tend to have much harsher penalties. Individuals accused of a felony must also attend a bail hearing, during which a judge will decide whether or not they are a candidate for bail. 

A bail hearing will typically take place several days after arrest. The judge will consider the defendant's criminal history, matters of public safety, and the likelihood of securing a court appearance in the future when determining bail.

The Bail Schedule

While felony charges invariably result in larger bail penalties, judges in California will always consult bail schedules to determine bail amounts. While these codes do carry specific charges based on things like the severity of a crime, the law dictates that judges cannot set arbitrarily high bail amounts, even for a felony. 

However, if a judge doesn’t deem a felon suitable in accordance with the State of California Department of Justice, they can refuse bail. A judge will typically take this course of action for the most severe crimes. 

Failing to Post Bail for a Felony in California

When bail isn’t posted, an individual will typically be held in pre-trial detention. While bail amounts for a felony can be high, failing to post bail for a felony can have a hugely detrimental impact on an individual’s future prospects. 

As well as being incredibly harmful to that individual’s mental health, pre-trial detention can prevent an individual from being able to properly defend themselves because of –

  • Limited access to resources
  • Restricted freedoms
  • Difficulty coordinating with attorneys or connecting with witnesses

How do Felony Bail Bonds Work in California?

When charged with a felony, a defendant will be expected to pay their bail in one of three ways as follows – 

  1. Cash bail bond: A defendant or cosigner pays the full bail amount, which is returned minus fees once the case is resolved.
  2. Property bail bond: A defendant or co-signer uses their property as collateral for the bail bond.
  3. Surety bail bond: A defendant or co-signer pays a bail bond company a small fee to post bail on their behalf.

The fact that felony charges typically carry larger penalties means that most individuals will be unable to post bail themselves. To post bail on a felony charge in California, it’s therefore often necessary to contact a bail bond company like 24 Hour Online Bail Bonds. This will happen after bail is set and requires a co-signed contract in case the defendant later fails to attend court.

Before a bail bondsman can grant a request for bail, they will need to know about – 

  • Employment history
  • Collateral assets
  • Current place of residence
  • Etc.

When the defendant has attended all of their court dates and the case is resolved, the bail money will be returned to the bail bond company. If the defendant does not appear in court, they or their co-signer must repay the full amount of the surety bail bond. 

Act Fast to Post Bail for your Felony Charge

Can you post bail on a felony charge? Yes, and the sooner you or your loved one are able to do so, the sooner it will be possible to secure a strong defense. Instead of wasting time trying to find the full bail amount, a bail bond company like 24 Hour Online Bail Bonds can help to secure release much sooner.

Regardless of the time of your arrest, our agents are on-hand to help get you out of jail. Then, you’ll be in the best possible position to meet with lawyers and develop a defense that’s far more likely to clear your name.