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Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects thousands of families across California. Law enforcement takes swift action to make arrests when allegations arise, even when the facts remain unclear. After your arrest for domestic violence, securing a quick release is critical. Most defendants facing domestic violence charges will require bail to secure their release pending trial.

Due to the high bail amounts set by judges in California, bail bonds offer an affordable path for defendants to secure a release. Posting a bail bond involves contacting a local surety company for assistance. The company will shoulder the liability of ensuring the defendants return to court. Additionally, it pledges to pay the entire bail amount if the defendant fails to show up for trial.

Bail Bonds Process After an Arrest for Domestic Violence

Defendants facing domestic violence charges will need bail to secure their release from detention pending trial. A judge will set bail for the defendant depending on the severity of the domestic violence crime and other case factors. California courts set high bail amounts for domestic violence charges.

Because many people cannot afford to post cash bail in full, your ideal option is often a bail bond, an affordable, fast-track solution. A bail bond is an agreement between a surety company, the court, and a defendant. The surety assures the court that a defendant will return for trial after a release pending trial. Additionally, it pledges the full bail amount if the defendant skips bail.

You will pay 10% of the entire bail amount to the surety company as a fee for the services. When you contact a bonds company for assistance, they will send a bondsman to assess your eligibility for their services. The following are some factors that the company will consider before deciding to offer its services to defendants.

Seriousness of the Charges

Domestic violence attracts felony or misdemeanor charges depending on the circumstances. Surety companies assess the nature and seriousness of the charge before offering domestic violence bail bonds. Defendants facing felony charges are considered higher risk. More severe charges indicate a greater likelihood of the defendant evading prosecution. A high flight risk increases the company’s financial liability.

Criminal History

A defendant’s criminal record significantly affects the surety company’s decision. The company may view the individual as a significant flight risk if they have prior domestic violence arrests or convictions. A clean record, on the other hand, may suggest a lower risk of flight or further criminal behavior while on bail.

Flight Risk

Domestic violence attracts severe legal and collateral consequences after a conviction. Therefore, a defendant may be tempted to flee after a bail release to avoid a conviction. Surety companies evaluate the defendant's likelihood to return for court dates when offering domestic violence bail bonds. Factors that may work in your favor include:

  • Having a stable job
  • Having strong family connections
  • History of appearing for past court dates

The company may decline or increase bond requirements if a defendant is a high flight risk.

Bail Amount Set by the Court

The bail amount affects the risk the company assumes. A high bail suggests that the court views the offense or defendant as serious or risky. The surety is responsible for the full amount if the defendant flees. Therefore, they consider whether the risk of financial loss justifies the potential for repayment.

Co-Signer or Collateral Availability

Surety companies require a responsible person to cosign the bail bond for a defendant. If the defendant skips bail, a cosigner shoulders the financial responsibility for the full bail. If the defendant is a flight risk, the company could require collateral in addition to the bail bond premium. The company views collateral as a safety net and can seize it to recover the bail money if the defendant flees.

Bail Bond Conditions for Domestic Violence Charges in California

Courts in California impose strict bail conditions for domestic violence defendants to protect victims and uphold public safety. These conditions serve as legal requirements that the defendant must follow to remain free while awaiting trial. Bail conditions apply whether you post a surety bond or explore other options like cash bail and property bonds. They include:

No Contact Orders

A no-contact order is a common condition of bail for domestic abuse in California. The condition prohibits the defendant from contacting the alleged victim in any way. It includes direct contact, like in-person interactions, or indirect contact, like using a third party. This order aims to prevent harassment, intimidation, or emotional abuse. Additionally, it ensures that the victim feels safe and free from fear during the legal proceedings.

Mandatory Check-ins

Mandatory check-ins with pretrial services are another requirement for bail on domestic violence charges. The defendant must report regularly to show they are following the bail conditions. These check-ins help the court keep track of the defendant’s behavior and ensure they appear at all scheduled hearings. If the defendant fails to check in as required, their bail can be revoked, and they may be rearrested.

Attendance at Intervention Programs

Courts may order participation in domestic violence counseling when awarding domestic violence charges bail. These programs address the defendant’s behavior and reduce the likelihood of future violence. The court monitors attendance at these programs.

Substance Use Restrictions

Some domestic violence instances are fueled by drug abuse and dependency. In these cases, defendants may face restrictions on alcohol or drug use. Violating these restrictions can be grounds for revoking bail.

Firearm Restrictions

Domestic violence cases involve concerns of physical harm to the victims. Therefore, courts may order defendants to surrender any firearms they possess. The condition reduces the risk of violent escalation. As a condition of bail for domestic abuse, the judge can order the defendant to turn over their guns to law enforcement.

Find Expert Bail Bond Services Near Me

If you are arrested for domestic violence in California, the court may set a high bail amount for you. Domestic violence bail bonds offer a lifeline, allowing individuals to continue their lives while navigating the legal system.

Due to the severity of domestic violence charges, securing a bail bond is not straightforward. The bail bonds company will assess different factors of your case, including flight risk, criminal history, and other factors. Besides the conditions set by the court, the surety bonds company may impose more conditions to minimize the risk associated with the bail bonds.

If you or a loved one faces an arrest for domestic violence in California and needs bail bond services, contact 24 Hours Bail Bonds. We are available around the clock to help you secure release and protect your future. Call us at 800-930-8999 for expert assistance.