Misdemeanor Bail Bonds PDF Print E-mail

If you have a friend or relative who has been arrested for a misdemeanor, and you would like to talk about your options for getting them out, we have bail agents who can answer all of your questions and get your loved one home as quickly as possible. Call us toll free anytime at 888-SOS-BAIL or 888-767-2245

Misdemeanor Bail Bonds
In California, criminal offenses are classified as infractions, misdemeanors or felonies.

  • Infractions, such as traffic violations, are punishable by a fine and no jail time.
  • Misdemeanor crimes are considered more serious than infractions but less serious than felonies, and carry a punishment of less than 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
  • Felonies are serious offenses that generally carry a jail sentence (possibly state prison) of one year or more.

California Misdemeanor Law
Misdemeanors are usually charged by a written complaint or “information” (formal charges without a grand jury). Typically the complaint is mailed to the accused by the prosecutor’s office requesting their presence in court at a specified date.

While misdemeanor charges may be considered minor, being accused and/or convicted can have devastating lifelong effects.

Misdemeanor examples include:

  • DUI (driving under the influence)/DWI (driving while intoxicated): 1st , 2nd,  or 3rd offense, no injuries
  • Trespass
  • Petty Theft/Shoplifting
  • Disorderly Conduct
  • Obscene Matter
  • Probation Violations
  • Unlicensed Driver
  • Gambling
  • Solicitation of Prostitution
  • Violation of Restraining Orders
  • Reckless Driving
  • Assault and Battery (no or minimum injury)
  • Domestic Violence

Elevating Misdemeanors to Felonies
If the prosecutor alleges a prior similar act, he/she may elevate a simple misdemeanor to a felony with the possibilities of increased jail time and a state prison sentence. Examples of these offenses include:

  • Petty Theft
  • Domestic Violence
  • Violation of a Domestic Violence Order
  • Drunk Driving (DUI/DWI) with 3 priors in 10 years
  • Indecent Exposure
  • Loaded Firearm in a Public Place

Whether a crime is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depends on the seriousness of the crime, injuries to the victim, and the defendant’s prior criminal record.

Misdemeanor Sentencing: Penalties and Consequences
If a defendant is convicted of a misdemeanor, either by a plea or a jury trial, the court can impose probation (informal) with or without jail time, community service, physical labor, counseling, restitution (paying the victim), fines ($200 to $2,000), and “stay-away” orders.

888-SOS-BAIL or 888-767-2245