In San Joaquin County, bail amounts are set using a county bail schedule , a standardized chart that assigns dollar amounts to specific charges. When someone is booked into the jail, the booking officer refers to this schedule to determine the initial bail amount based on the charge code.
For most misdemeanor and lower-level felony charges, bail is set automatically at booking. This means a bondsman can post bail immediately after the booking process is complete, without waiting for a court hearing.
For serious felonies, violent crimes, or cases with special circumstances, a judge may override the schedule at arraignment and set a higher or lower amount based on the specifics of the case and the defendant's criminal history.
Your cost is always 10%. California state law requires all bail bondsmen to charge exactly 10% of the total bail amount. If bail is set at $50,000, you pay $5,000. No exceptions, no negotiation on rate.
These are typical ranges based on the San Joaquin County bail schedule. Actual amounts may vary based on charge specifics, prior record, and judge discretion.
Amounts reflect common SJC bail schedule ranges. Call us for the exact amount on a specific case.
The bail schedule sets the starting point, but it is not always the final word. At arraignment, a defense attorney can argue for a bail reduction based on factors including:
Conversely, prosecutors can argue for bail enhancement if the defendant has a prior record, prior failures to appear, or the charge is particularly serious. We advise all clients to retain a defense attorney at the earliest opportunity.
Here is what 10% looks like at common bail amounts:
We offer payment plans. The cost of a bail bond should never be the reason someone stays in jail. Call us to discuss your options.
Once you know the bail amount, we can have someone home in a matter of hours. Call now.
