For the sake of fairness, California’s bail bond laws and regulations offer clear, straightforward guidelines for anyone who would benefit. Still, given the stakes, the process can be confusing and overwhelming, especially for those unfamiliar with the system.
To make matters worse, there are several myths surrounding bail bond laws and regulations that only add to the confusion. So, let’s bust some of the most common myths about these regulations to help you better understand the process.
The process actually begins with the setting of the bail amount. This is typically done by a judge or a magistrate and is based on several factors. These include the severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and their ties to the community.
Contrary to popular belief, bail bondsmen are not responsible for setting bail bond amounts. As mentioned earlier, it is the judge or magistrate who sets the bail amount. However, bail bondsmen can help defendants obtain a bail bond to secure their release from jail.
Thanks to technology, it’s now possible to contact a bondsman through various means, including phone, email, or even online chat. In-person meetings are not always necessary, and many California bondsmen offer online bail bonds that can help expedite the process.
Skipping bail is a serious offence and can result in the revocation of your bail bond. However, if you are able to resolve the situation and turn yourself in, you may avoid returning to jail immediately. This will depend on the circumstances of your case and the judge’s decision.
Contrary to what some may believe, there are no loopholes that allow people to get out of their bail obligation. If you fail to fulfil your obligations, including as court appearances, you risk having your bail revocation and returning to jail.
California’s bail bond laws and regulations can be complex, and myths surrounding the process only add to the confusion. By debunking them, we hope to provide a clearer understanding of the process. It helps you make informed decisions if you or a loved one ever find yourselves in need of a bond.
Tristan Bustard
February 28, 2023
Bail Bonds