Why a court orders cash-only bail
Judges use cash-only bail when they want the money itself to guarantee appearance — most often after a failure to appear, a prior forfeiture, or where the court has concerns about the origin of the funds.
Related but different: a Penal Code §1275 hold does not require cash. It requires proof that the money being used is not the product of a felony. Bail can be posted once the source-of-funds showing is made.
What a bail agent can legitimately do
- Read the minute order and confirm with the clerk whether the condition really is cash-only, or whether it was miscommunicated at the jail.
- Explain the refund mechanics so the family names the right depositor on the receipt — see Penal Code §1297.
- Coordinate with defense counsel to request removal of the cash-only condition under Penal Code §1289.
- Stand by to post a surety bond the same day if the condition is lifted.
Posting cash bail correctly
- Confirm the exact amount and the accepted payment method with the jail or court cashier — some accept cashier's checks, some only certified funds.
- Post in the name of the person who should receive the refund.
- Keep the original receipt; the clerk requires it to process the refund at exoneration.
- Expect 30 to 90 days for the refund after the case ends, less any fines or fees the court deducts.
If a surety bond becomes an option
Once the court allows a bond, the premium is the standard filed rate — 10%, with as low as 1% down for qualified cosigners. Run the numbers on the bail bond calculator or read the 10% premium breakdown.
Armstrong agents work the LA and San Diego windows nightly and can tell you within minutes whether the cash-only note on a booking record is real. Call (818) 241-2171.