How The Bail Process Works In Glendale, CA
Understanding the Bail Bonds Process in Glendale and Los Angeles County
When someone is arrested in Glendale or Los Angeles County, the bail bonds process can seem overwhelming. However, knowing the steps involved can help ease the stress. Here’s a detailed look at how the bail bonds process works:
1. Arrest and Booking
- Arrest: A person is taken into custody by law enforcement.
- Booking: The arrested individual is taken to a local jail where they are booked. This process includes taking fingerprints, photos, and recording personal information. The charges are officially documented.
- Bail Amount Set: A judge or a bail schedule sets the bail amount based on the severity of the crime, the individual’s criminal history, and the likelihood of them appearing in court.
2. Bail Bond Eligibility
- Assessment: Once the bail amount is set, the next step is to determine if the person can pay the full amount or if they need a bail bond. Most people turn to a bail bonds company to cover the cost.
- Contact a Bail Bondsman: The family or the defendant contacts a bail bondsman, like Cecil C. Armstrong Bail Bonds, to start the process.
3. Choosing a Bail Bond
- 2 Percent Bail Bonds: We offer a special option where you only need to pay 2% of the total bail amount. For example, if the bail is set at $10,000, you would pay only $200 to secure the release of your loved one.
- Qualifying for 2 Percent Bail Bonds: Not everyone qualifies for the 2 percent bail bond. Our agents will review your situation, including the charges, your financial status, and your credit. If you qualify, this can make the process much more affordable.
4. Securing the Bail Bond
- Paperwork: Once you qualify for a 2 percent bail bond, our agents will guide you through the necessary paperwork. This includes signing an agreement that states you’ll pay the 2 percent and agree to appear in court as required.
- Collateral: In some cases, collateral may be required to secure the bond. This can be property, a vehicle, or other assets that the bondsman can claim if the defendant doesn’t appear in court.
5. Posting the Bail
- Posting the Bond: After the paperwork is completed, Cecil C. Armstrong Bail Bonds will post the bail with the court. This guarantees the defendant’s release from jail.
- Release from Jail: The jail processes the paperwork, and the defendant is released. This process can take a few hours, depending on the jail’s workload.
6. Court Appearances
- Attend Court: The defendant must attend all scheduled court appearances. Failing to do so can result in the bail being forfeited, and the bondsman may take legal action to recover the bond amount.
- Case Resolution: Once the case is resolved, whether through a trial, plea bargain, or dismissal, the bail bond is exonerated, meaning the bond agreement is fulfilled.
How Cecil C. Armstrong Bail Bonds Can Help
At Cecil C. Armstrong Bail Bonds, we’re committed to making the bail process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here’s how we can assist you:
- 2 Percent Bail Bonds: We offer 2 percent bail bonds to make it easier for families to afford bail. This lower rate helps reduce the financial burden during a tough time.
- Free Inmate Search: If you’re unsure where your loved one is being held, we provide a free inmate search service. We can locate inmates in any jail in Glendale, Los Angeles County, and surrounding areas quickly and efficiently.
- 24/7 Support: We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No matter when you need help, our team is ready to assist you.
- Bilingual Staff: Our agents speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication and support for all clients.
- Experience and Compassion: With over a decade of experience, our team is kind, compassionate, and dedicated to getting your loved one out of jail in less than 24 hours.
If you need help navigating the bail bonds process in Glendale or Los Angeles County, Cecil C. Armstrong Bail Bonds is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our 2 percent bail bonds and how we can assist you in finding and bailing out your loved one.
Common Types of Bail Charges That Can Receive a 2 Percent Bail Bond
In Southern California, the bail bond process can be a financial burden for many families. However, with the availability of 2 percent bail bonds, securing the release of a loved one has become more affordable. While not all charges qualify for a 2 percent bail bond, several common types do. Here, we’ll explore the most frequent charges that can receive this lower-rate bail bond and how Cecil C. Armstrong Bail Bonds can help.
1. Misdemeanor Offenses
Misdemeanors are some of the most common charges that qualify for a 2 percent bail bond. These are generally less severe offenses and include:
- Petty Theft: Involves stealing items of low value, typically less than $950.
- Simple Assault: A minor altercation where no serious injury occurred.
- Public Intoxication: Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs in a public place.
- Trespassing: Entering someone’s property without permission.
Misdemeanors usually carry lower bail amounts, making them ideal candidates for a 2 percent bail bond. This option allows you to pay just a small fraction of the total bail, ensuring that your loved one can be released quickly while minimizing financial stress.
2. Non-Violent Felonies
Non-violent felonies are more serious than misdemeanors but do not involve physical harm or the threat of harm to others. Common non-violent felonies that may qualify for a 2 percent bail bond include:
- Drug Possession: Possessing illegal drugs or controlled substances without the intent to distribute.
- Fraud: Deceptively obtaining money or assets, including identity theft or check fraud.
- Embezzlement: Misappropriating funds or property entrusted to your care.
Because these offenses do not involve violence, they are often eligible for the lower 2 percent rate, especially if the defendant has a clean criminal record and is considered a low flight risk.
3. First-Time Offenses
First-time offenders, regardless of the charge, are more likely to qualify for a 2 percent bail bond. Courts and bail bonds companies often take into account the defendant’s criminal history when setting bail. If someone has no prior convictions or arrests, they are seen as less of a flight risk, which can make them eligible for a lower bail rate.
- First DUI (Driving Under the Influence): A person’s first DUI offense without any aggravating factors like injuries or property damage.
- First-Time Shoplifting: Stealing for the first time without any previous criminal record.
- First-Time Drug Offense: Possession of a small amount of illegal drugs for personal use with no prior drug-related charges.
Being a first-time offender can significantly increase the chances of qualifying for a 2 percent bail bond, allowing you to keep costs low while securing release from jail.
4. Property Crimes
Property crimes are offenses that involve damaging or stealing property without directly harming others. These can include:
- Burglary: Entering a building or property with the intent to commit theft or another crime.
- Vandalism: Damaging or defacing property, including graffiti or destruction of windows.
- Grand Theft: Stealing items or money of significant value, typically over $950.
Property crimes, especially when non-violent, often qualify for 2 percent bail bonds, making it easier for families to manage the financial burden of securing a loved one’s release.
5. Domestic Disputes (Non-Violent)
Non-violent domestic disputes, such as arguments that result in a disturbance without physical altercations, may also be eligible for a 2 percent bail bond. These charges can include:
- Disturbing the Peace: Involves engaging in behavior that disrupts public order, often related to domestic arguments.
- Verbal Assault: Using threatening language without any physical action.
In many cases, especially where no physical harm was done, these charges can qualify for a lower bail rate, allowing you to secure the release of your loved one while keeping costs manageable.