How Bail Works in California

What is a bail bond?

A surety bond, more commonly referred to as a bail bond, is an agreement between an individual and a state licensed bail agent guaranteeing that a defendant will show for all scheduled court appearances. In a case where the defendant "skips" or fails to show up for a hearing, the signer or cosigners of the bail bond contract will be held responsible for the full amount of the bond.

In the state of California, bail bond agencies are required to charge the signers, or the individuals obtaining the bond, 10% of the full amount. This means that the cost is non-negotiable and enforced by state law. There are discounts available for qualified customers, which you can read about on our FAQ page.

At Adelante Bail Bonds, our team has an extensive understanding of bail bonds and the bail process in California. We serve a variety of San Fernando Valley communities, including those residents in North Hollywood, Encino, Van Nuys, Woodland Hills, Glendale and Burbank. We offer free information over the phone and are available to come to your home or jail to provide you with the documents you need to post bail for a loved one.

San Fernando Valley Bail Bonds

While those who have never had to obtain a bail bond may not understand the purpose of this type of agreement, it actually exists for quite an important reason. Statistically, the bail system has been successful and costs no money to taxpayers.

At our office, the team is entirely composed of licensed bond agents and college graduates. We are a family owned and operated business, which allows us to have compassion and show empathy for each of our customers. If you have any questions regarding bail bonds in San Fernando Valley, feel free to call us for information today!

What to Expect When Posting Bail

When you are called upon to help your loved one out of a sticky situation, you will be placed with a huge responsibility. First, you will need to get in contact with a professional and friendly bail bond agency that can give you the help you deserve. They will then walk you through the process and collect basic information from you to determine your eligibility to obtain a bond. Simple questions such as the nature of the charges and when the arrest took place, if you and the defendant are employed, if you are both homeowners and how long you have known each other, will be asked over the phone.

After this is complete and you have been approved, we will expedite the process on your behalf and try to have bail posted at the jail within an hour or two. Depending on whether the defendant is in jail or still in custody at the police station will determine the amount of time it will take to secure their release.

As the indemnitor, or the signer of the agreement, you will be responsible to pay for 10% of the bond, per California statutes. We accept all major credit cards, cash and offer no cost financing for qualified customers.

What happens if the defendant is not bailed out?

In cases in which you decide to forego bail for the defendant, they will miss out on a very important window of time to get adequate legal representation. When a person is charged with a crime, they must go out and seek the most aggressive and effective criminal defense attorney to protect their rights. They will only be able to seek representation themselves if they have already been bailed out of jail. If your loved one is in jail for committing a crime, immediately call our office so we can walk you through the bail process and how bail works.

Contact a San Fernando Valley bail bonds agent from our office immediately after your loved one has been taken into custody at a local jail.