There are two different facilities on Commerce Way, and people mix them up constantly. The Taft city jail is 320 Commerce Way — that’s where local arrests go, and where bail can be posted. The Community Correctional Facility is 330 Commerce Way — a city-run contract facility that, according to 2023 local reporting, houses federal detainees. If someone was arrested in Taft last night, you almost certainly want the city jail page instead.
The Taft Community Correctional Facility is the large institution on the east edge of town, and its history explains most of the confusion around it. It opened in the early 1990s holding California state inmates, closed in 2011 during prison realignment, reopened in 2014, and closed again as the state wound down its contract facilities — accounts differ on the exact year.
According to local reporting in 2023, the city then spent roughly a million dollars on renovations — flooring, kitchens, plumbing, HVAC — hired about 50 staff, and reopened under an intergovernmental agreement with the United States Marshals Service, holding detainees for federal authorities rather than people arrested locally. Facility arrangements change, so call to confirm anything current.
Federal detainees under a U.S. Marshals Service agreement (per 2023 reporting)
Not to be confused with
Taft PD jail, 320 Commerce Way (local arrests) — or the former Taft Correctional Institution, which closed in 2020
Why bail works differently here
This is the part worth understanding before you spend any money.
When someone is arrested on California state charges — a Taft PD arrest, a Sheriff’s arrest, almost everything we handle — bail is set from a county schedule, and a licensed bondsman can post a bond for a premium that is most commonly 10% of the bail amount (sureties file their rates with the California Department of Insurance, and 8% filed rates exist for qualifying cases). That’s the system this whole website is about.
Federal custody is a different system. There is no county bail schedule and no standard 10% commercial bond. Release is decided by a federal magistrate judge at a detention hearing, usually within a few days of the initial appearance, under the federal Bail Reform Act. The judge weighs flight risk and danger to the community and either releases the person on conditions — supervision, travel limits, sometimes a bond secured by property or a family member’s signature — or orders them detained.
If your loved one is in federal custody, the first call is a federal criminal defense attorney, not a bail bondsman. If they can’t afford one, the Federal Public Defender’s office is appointed at the initial appearance. We’d rather tell you that plainly than take a call we can’t help with.
We say this as a bail bonds company: on a federal detainer, we are usually not the right people. Where we can help is when someone also has a California state case — a Kern County charge, an out-of-county warrant, an old bench warrant — running alongside the federal matter. That part we handle every day. Call and we’ll tell you honestly which situation you’re in.
Sending mail and money
The facility handles inmate mail through a post office box rather than the street address:
Mail: PO Box 925, Taft, CA 93268. Include your loved one’s full name as it appears on their booking record. Facilities return mail that doesn’t follow their rules exactly, so call first if you’re unsure about photos, books or enclosures.
Money: funds are deposited through Access Corrections.
Commissary: care packages and commissary orders go through Access Securepak.
Legal visits: attorneys arrange meetings with detainees by email through the facility.
Vendor procedures and fees change, and so do visiting rules. Call 661-765-2840 and confirm before you send money or drive out.
No. The city jail is the Taft Police Department facility at 320 Commerce Way — short-term holding for people arrested locally. The Community Correctional Facility at 330 Commerce Way is a separate, city-operated contract facility housing federal detainees.
Is this the same as Taft Correctional Institution?
No. Taft Correctional Institution was a separate federal prison on Cadet Road, operated under contract by a private company for the Bureau of Prisons; it closed in 2020. The similar names and the same small town make this a common mix-up.
Can you bail someone out of this facility?
Generally not. Federal detainees are released on conditions set by a federal magistrate judge, not by posting a 10% California bail bond. If there’s also a state case or warrant in the mix, that part we can help with.
How do I find out if someone is being held here?
People held for federal authorities won’t appear in the Kern County inmate search. Call the facility at 661-765-2840. If you’re not certain your loved one is there at all, call us and we’ll check the local and county systems.
What are visiting hours?
Be careful here: an old state corrections listing for this address still shows weekend visiting hours, but those date from when the state ran the facility and no longer apply. Rules for federal detainees are set in coordination with the holding agency. Call 661-765-2840 before making the drive.
About Cowboy Bail Bonds
For more than 50 years, Cowboy Bail Bonds has helped Kern County families — including Taft, Maricopa and the west Kern oil communities — navigate the bail process from our office at 1710 Blanche Street in Bakersfield. We post bonds at the Taft city jail and at the county facilities, day or night, and we’ll tell you straight when a case isn’t one a bail bond can solve. Available 24 hours a day, every day, including holidays. Bilingual agents on staff. Se Habla Español. California Bail License #1841598.
After a Taft arrest, your loved one is booked into the Taft Police Department jail at 320 Commerce Way — not Bakersfield. Bail can be posted there. It is short-term holding, though — people who stay in custody are driven to the county jail at the Lerdo Jail Complex in Bakersfield, and the process gets slower once they are there. Call 661-324-6009 any hour.
The hardest part of the first night is not knowing what’s happening. Someone you love was arrested in Taft an hour ago, nobody is telling you much, and the county inmate search is coming back empty. Here is the actual sequence, start to finish, so you know what’s going on and when you can do something about it.
The single most important thing to understand: there is a window. Early on, your person is in Taft, minutes from your house, and bail can be posted locally. Once they are moved to Bakersfield everything takes longer. Most families lose that window simply because nobody told them it existed. How long it lasts is worth a phone call — see below.
The timeline
Hour 0
The arrest
If it happened inside Taft city limits, the Taft Police Department made the arrest. If it happened outside city limits — the city of Maricopa, or the unincorporated communities of Fellows, McKittrick, Derby Acres, Dustin Acres and Valley Acres — it was a Kern County Sheriff’s deputy from the Taft Substation on Gardner Field Road. Ford City, South Taft and Taft Heights are unincorporated too, right up against the city, so an arrest there is usually a Sheriff’s matter as well. That distinction decides everything that follows, so confirm which agency made the arrest rather than assuming.
Hour 0 to 1
Transport to the jail
A Taft PD arrest goes to the Taft Police Department jail at 320 Commerce Way — a few minutes’ drive. A Sheriff’s arrest goes the other way: the Taft Substation is a patrol base, not a booking facility, so a deputy drives straight to Bakersfield. Same town, two completely different nights.
Hour 1 to 4
Booking
Fingerprints, photograph, property inventory, health screening, phone call. Property is logged on a booking sheet your loved one signs when they’re released. Until booking is finished there’s usually no bail amount to work with yet — this is the stretch where families feel most powerless, and it’s normal.
Hour 2 to 6
Bail is set — and the window opens
Bail is set from the Kern County bail schedule based on the charges. This is the moment to act. A licensed bondsman can post the bond at the Taft jail; the facility takes cash, money orders, certified checks and bonds, though not personal checks. If the bond is posted here, your loved one is released in Taft and you pick them up in town. Some people are cited and released at this stage without any bond at all.
The holding window
How long they stay in Taft
Sources disagree, so call and ask. The City of Taft’s website states a 96-hour maximum, matching the California standard for a Type I facility. The department’s own jail manual sets a stricter 48-hour limit. Either way it is a ceiling, not a guarantee: anyone needing medical care or detox is transferred to Bakersfield immediately, whatever the clock says. Call 661-763-3101 rather than planning around a number.
After the holding window
Transfer to Bakersfield
Anyone still in custody is transported to the county jail at the Lerdo Jail Complex, where new arrests are booked at the Sheriff’s Inmate Reception Center (the older Central Receiving Facility downtown is now court holding only) — roughly 50 to 60 minutes from Taft. They’re booked into the county system, and only now do they start appearing in the county inmate search. Most people who aren’t released quickly move on to the Lerdo Pre-Trial Facility north of town.
After the bond is posted
Release
From the Taft jail, release is usually quick — it’s a small facility with a short line. From the county jail at Lerdo, expect several hours; the Sheriff says release can take up to 8 hours after bail is posted. The wait is county processing, not the bond.
Within 48 hours
Arraignment
California law (Penal Code §825) requires a first appearance within 48 hours of arrest, excluding Sundays and holidays — note that a Saturday still counts against the clock. If the time runs out while court is closed, the appearance happens at the next session. The release or court paperwork names the courthouse, department, date and time — that paperwork is the authority, not anything you read online.
One call tells you where they are, what bail is, and whether a bond is even needed.
This is the question we get most from Taft families, and the answer is reassuring. Someone sitting in the Taft city jail has not been booked into a county facility, so they generally will not appear in the Kern County inmate database at all. An empty search result usually doesn’t mean something went wrong — it means they’re still in Taft.
Once they’re in the county system you can find them here:
kernsheriff.org → “Inmate Search” — the Kern County Sheriff’s official database, and the one to trust.
kerninmatesearch.org — an unofficial site some families find easier to navigate; always confirm what you find there against the Sheriff’s database.
Still nothing after the transfer? New county bookings can take 2 to 6 hours to post. Check back every 30 minutes. Our step-by-step guide: How to Find Someone in Kern County Jail.
What we need from you
You don’t have to drive anywhere, and you don’t have to have everything figured out. One phone call starts it:
Their full name and date of birth. Enough for us to find the booking record.
Where they were arrested, if you know — in town or out in the county. It tells us which building to call.
We pull the record and tell you the charges, the bail amount, and whether there are any holds, before you commit to anything.
You sign by phone or online. No trip to Bakersfield.
We post the bond at whichever facility they’re in.
Not everyone needs a bond. Plenty of people are cited and released, or released by the court on their own recognizance, without anyone posting anything. Ask us what’s likely in your case before you pay a dollar — if waiting is the better move, we’ll tell you so.
Taft arrest at a glance
Stage
Where
Typical timing
Arrest
Taft or west Kern
Hour 0
Booking
Taft PD jail, 320 Commerce Way
1–4 hours
Bail set
Taft PD jail
2–6 hours
Local bail window
Taft PD jail
Short-term — call to confirm
Transfer
Lerdo Jail Complex, Bakersfield
After the holding window
Release after bond
Taft
Usually quick
Release after bond
Lerdo (county jail)
Up to 8 hours
Arraignment
Kern County Superior Court
48 hrs, excl. Sundays/holidays
What bail costs
The premium is most commonly 10% of the bail amount — $1,000 on a $10,000 bail. It is not fixed by statute: each surety files its rates with the California Department of Insurance and its agents charge the filed rate, and many sureties file as low as 8% for qualifying cases. Ask what filed rate applies to yours. We offer payment plans and easy-to-qualify terms, and you’ll know the exact figure before you agree to anything. Run a quick estimate with our free bail bond calculator, or read how to post bail in Kern County.
Frequently asked questions
How long before they’re moved to Bakersfield?
Sources differ — the city’s website says 96 hours, the department’s own manual says 48. Past whichever applies, anyone still in custody is transported to the county jail, where new arrests are booked at the Sheriff’s Inmate Reception Center at the Lerdo Jail Complex. Medical or detox needs can trigger an earlier transfer. Call 661-763-3101 to ask.
Do I need to drive to Bakersfield to post bail?
No. If they’re still at the Taft jail, we post the bond there. And either way you don’t need to be present — paperwork is handled by phone or online.
Can I do anything in the first hour?
Call us. We often can’t post a bond until booking is done and bail is set, but we can confirm where they are, watch for the bail amount, and have the paperwork ready to go the moment it posts. That preparation is usually what saves the window.
What if they were arrested outside Taft city limits?
Then a Sheriff’s deputy made the arrest and they went straight to Bakersfield — the Taft Substation is not a booking facility. This includes Ford City, South Taft and Taft Heights, which are unincorporated. Skip the Taft jail and start with the county inmate search.
What if there’s a hold?
An out-of-county warrant or a probation or parole hold can keep someone in custody even after bail is posted. We check for holds before you pay anything.
About Cowboy Bail Bonds
For more than 50 years, Cowboy Bail Bonds has helped Kern County families — including Taft, Maricopa and the west Kern oil communities — get through the bail process from our office at 1710 Blanche Street in Bakersfield. We post bonds at the Taft jail and at the county facilities, day or night. Available 24 hours a day, every day, including holidays. Bilingual agents on staff. Se Habla Español. California Bail License #1841598.
Taft has its own jail — the Taft Police Department Type I facility at 320 Commerce Way, 661-763-3101. Bail can be posted right there. It is short-term holding — people who stay in custody are driven to the county jail in Bakersfield — so it is worth finding out early whether your loved one is still in town. Call 661-324-6009.
Most people in Taft assume an arrest means an immediate trip to Bakersfield. It usually doesn’t — at least not right away. The Taft Police Department operates its own jail, and for the first day or two after an arrest, that’s where your husband, wife, son or daughter is sitting: a few blocks off Kern Street, not an hour up the highway.
That matters more than it sounds. It means you can often post bail in Taft, in person, and drive them home the same night. It also means there’s a clock running. This page explains what the Taft jail is, how bail works there, what the hours are, and what changes the moment someone is transferred to Bakersfield.
Quick facts: the Taft Police Department jail
Facility
Taft Police Department Type I Jail — pre-arraignment holding
Address
320 Commerce Way, Taft, CA 93268
Phone
661-763-3101 — the department’s main line; there is no separate published jail number
Visiting hours
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Monday through Sunday
Length of stay
Short-term — see below; then transfer to Bakersfield
Bail accepted
Yes — at the facility
We’re available
24 hours a day, every day — Se Habla Español
What a “Type I” jail actually means
California sorts local lockups into types. Under state regulation (15 CCR §1006), a Type I facility holds people for no more than 96 hours after booking, excluding holidays — a short-term lockup, not a jail where a case is served out. The City of Taft describes its own facility as “a Type I Jail facility for pre-arraignment prisoners.”
How long in practice? Sources disagree, so ask. The city’s website states a maximum of 96 hours. The Taft Police Department’s own jail manual sets a stricter internal limit — “prisoners will not be held over 48 hours” — and directs that anyone remaining past that point be transported to the county’s jail in Bakersfield. The manual names the Central Receiving Facility, which is now a court-holding facility that no longer books anyone; transfers now go to the Sheriff’s Inmate Reception Center at the Lerdo Jail Complex. Either way it is short-term, and either way the answer for your situation comes from a phone call to 661-763-3101, not from a number on a website.
Whatever the limit, it is a ceiling and not a promise. Transfers can happen sooner — someone who needs medical attention or detox is moved to Bakersfield right away, regardless of how long they have been in the door. Call the jail and confirm rather than planning around a deadline you read somewhere.
Can you post bail at the Taft jail?
Yes, and this is the single most useful thing to know about the facility. The Taft jail accepts bail on site. Under the department’s procedures, bail may be posted by cash deposit, money order, certified check, or by a bondsman — and personal checks are not accepted. Bail is receipted on a three-part form; cash is deposited with City Hall, while money orders, certified checks and bonds go to the appropriate court.
So if a licensed bondsman posts a bond at 320 Commerce Way inside that window, your loved one is released from Taft — no Bakersfield trip, no county intake, no waiting on the transport schedule. You pick them up in town.
Once the transfer happens, that option closes. Bail then has to be posted at the county facility in Bakersfield, and release runs on county timelines — typically 2 to 6 hours after the bond is posted, sometimes longer on a busy weekend night. Neither path is unusual and we handle both, but the first one gets people home considerably faster.
Not everyone needs a bond. Plenty of people are cited and released, or released by the court on their own recognizance, without anyone posting anything. Ask us what’s likely in your case before you pay a dollar — if waiting is the better move, we’ll tell you so.
Someone in the Taft jail right now? Find out where they are and what the options are.
The premium on a California bail bond is most commonly 10% of the bail amount — $1,000 on a $10,000 bail. That rate isn’t fixed by statute: each surety company files its rates with the California Department of Insurance, and its agents must charge the filed rate. Many sureties have a filed rate as low as 8% for qualifying cases (for example, where the defendant is represented by a private attorney), and California law permits an agent to rebate part of the premium. Ask what filed rate applies to your case.
We offer payment plans and easy-to-qualify terms, and we’ll tell you the exact number before you commit to anything. For a quick estimate, try our free bail bond calculator.
Visiting someone at the Taft jail
The jail manual lists visiting hours as 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Sunday. Meals are served in three windows — early morning, midday, and early evening — so visits are scheduled around the last of those.
This is a small facility with a handful of staff, so call 661-763-3101 before you drive over. Hours can shift with staffing, and if your person was transferred to Bakersfield earlier in the day, you’ll want to know that before you’re standing at the counter.
What happens if they’re transferred
If they stay in custody, your loved one is driven northeast to the Sheriff’s Inmate Reception Center at the Lerdo Jail Complex, 17801 Industrial Farm Road in Bakersfield — north of the city. (Older guides, including the Taft jail manual, name the Central Receiving Facility downtown; it is now the Metro Court Holding Facility and no longer books or houses anyone.) The Reception Center is the county’s intake point. From there, most people who aren’t released quickly move on to the Lerdo Pre-Trial Facility north of town.
Once someone is in the county system, you can track them through the Kern County inmate search:
kernsheriff.org → “Inmate Search” — the Kern County Sheriff’s official database, and the one to trust.
kerninmatesearch.org — an unofficial site some families find easier to navigate; always confirm what you find there against the Sheriff’s database.
Searched and found nothing? Someone still sitting in the Taft city jail generally won’t appear in the county database at all — they haven’t been booked into a county facility yet. An empty search result often means they’re still in Taft. Call the jail directly at 661-763-3101. Our full walkthrough is here: How to Find Someone in Kern County Jail.
Taft jail vs. the county facilities
Taft PD Jail
County jail (Lerdo)
Location
320 Commerce Way, Taft
Bakersfield — Lerdo Jail Complex, north of the city
Holds
Pre-arraignment only
Pre-trial and sentenced
Length of stay
Up to about 48 hours
Until release or case resolution
Bail posted there?
Yes
Yes
Shows in county inmate search
Generally no
Yes
Pick-up drive time
Minutes, in town
50 to 60 minutes each way
Other Taft-area facilities and agencies
A few nearby places get confused with the city jail, so it’s worth separating them:
Taft Community Correctional Facility — 330 Commerce Way, 661-765-2840. Right next door, but a different kind of facility with a different population. Not where someone goes straight after an arrest.
Kern County Sheriff’s Office — Taft Substation — 601 Gardner Field Road, 661-763-8550. This is the patrol base covering the west Kern communities outside Taft city limits: the city of Maricopa, plus Fellows, McKittrick, Derby Acres, Dustin Acres and Valley Acres. It is a patrol base, not a booking facility, so deputies transport arrestees to Bakersfield. If a deputy made the arrest outside Taft city limits, your person went to Bakersfield, not to Commerce Way.
Which court will handle the case?
The Taft courthouse on Lincoln Street operates on a limited schedule and does not hear the full range of cases, so where a Taft case is heard depends on the case. Don’t guess — the release or court paperwork names the courthouse, department, date and time.
If the paperwork isn’t clear, call the Kern County Superior Court to confirm which location has the case, or call us at 661-324-6009 — we track court dates for our clients and can look it up. Missing a first appearance because you drove to the wrong courthouse is a genuinely avoidable problem. See also our Kern County courthouse locations page.
Frequently asked questions
Does Taft have its own jail?
Yes. The Taft Police Department operates a Type I jail at 320 Commerce Way. It’s a short-term holding facility, not a county jail, and people are moved to Bakersfield if they stay in custody. Sources differ on the exact limit — the city says 96 hours, the department’s own manual says 48 — so call 661-763-3101 to ask.
Can I bail someone out directly from the Taft jail?
Yes. The facility accepts cash, money orders, certified checks and bail bonds — not personal checks. Posting before the transfer to Bakersfield is the fastest way home.
Why can’t I find my loved one in the Kern County inmate search?
If they were arrested in Taft city limits within the last day or so, they may still be at the Taft PD jail and not yet booked into a county facility, so they won’t show in the county database. Call the Taft jail at 661-763-3101 to confirm.
How long does release take?
From the Taft jail, release after a bond is posted is usually quick — it’s a small facility. From the county jail at Lerdo, the Sheriff says release can take up to 8 hours after bail is posted.
What if there’s a hold?
An out-of-county warrant or a probation or parole hold can keep someone in custody even after bail is posted. We check for holds before you pay anything.
Are you available in the middle of the night?
Yes. We’re open 24 hours a day, every day, including holidays, and the Taft jail accepts bail on site; call 661-763-3101 first to confirm when it can be posted.
About Cowboy Bail Bonds
For more than 50 years, Cowboy Bail Bonds has helped Kern County families — including Taft, Maricopa and the west Kern oil communities — navigate the bail process from our office at 1710 Blanche Street in Bakersfield. We post bonds at the Taft jail and at the county facilities, day or night. Available 24 hours a day, every day, including holidays. Bilingual agents on staff. Se Habla Español. California Bail License #1841598.
Excessive bail is bail set higher than reasonably needed to make sure a person comes back to court and to protect public safety. The Eighth Amendment bans it, but sets no dollar limit — whether an amount is excessive depends on the case. In California, a key 2021 decision, In re Humphrey, means a judge must also weigh a person’s ability to pay and consider alternatives to cash bail. If a bail amount feels out of reach, you have options — and you don’t have to wait to bring your loved one home. Call 661-324-6009.
When a bail amount lands and it’s far more than a family could ever pay, the first question is usually the same: Can they really do that? The Constitution says bail can’t be “excessive” — but it doesn’t say what that means in dollars. This guide explains what excessive bail actually is, how California judges are supposed to set bail, what changed after the In re Humphrey decision, and the practical steps for getting a high bail reduced.
What “excessive bail” means
The Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution reads, in part, that “excessive bail shall not be required.” The purpose of bail is narrow: it exists to make sure a defendant returns for their court dates — and, in California, to protect the public and victims. It is not meant to be a punishment before trial, and it is not supposed to keep someone locked up just because they’re poor.
The U.S. Supreme Court put it plainly in Stack v. Boyle (1951): bail set higher than an amount “reasonably calculated” to ensure the defendant’s appearance is “excessive under the Eighth Amendment.” In other words, if the number is bigger than what’s actually needed to bring the person back to court and keep the community safe, it crosses the line.
The catch is that “reasonable” is judged case by case. There’s no fixed ceiling. A $50,000 bail might be perfectly appropriate for one charge and clearly excessive for another. That’s why understanding the factors behind the number matters more than the number itself.
How California judges are supposed to set bail
California law gives judges a framework. Under Penal Code § 1275, when a court sets, reduces, or denies bail it must consider:
Factor
What the court looks at
Public & victim safety
The primary consideration — whether releasing the person poses a danger to the community or to a victim.
Seriousness of the offense
The nature of the charges, whether violence was involved, and the potential penalty.
Prior criminal record
Past convictions, prior failures to appear, and any history on probation or parole.
Probability of appearing
Ties to the community — family, job, length of residence — that make the person likely to return to court.
Every California county also publishes an annual bail schedule — a chart of standard bail amounts by charge that law enforcement uses at the moment of booking, before anyone sees a judge. Kern County is no exception. The schedule is a starting point, not the final word: a judge can raise it, lower it, or set other conditions once the case reaches court.
What In re Humphrey changed
The most important recent development in California bail is the state Supreme Court’s 2021 decision in In re Humphrey (2021) 11 Cal.5th 135. It reshaped how ability to pay fits into the bail question.
Under Humphrey, a California court:
Must consider the defendant’s ability to pay. Detaining someone solely because they can’t afford the bail amount can violate due process and equal protection.
Must consider less restrictive alternatives to cash bail — release on one’s own recognizance, supervised release, electronic monitoring, protective orders, or treatment programs — before relying on money.
Cannot use an unaffordable bail as a back-door way to detain someone. If the prosecution wants a person held before trial, it must justify that at a hearing with clear and convincing evidence that no less restrictive condition would protect the public and ensure the person’s return.
Bottom line: After Humphrey, a bail amount a person genuinely cannot afford can itself be a sign the bail is excessive — and there is a clear legal path to raise that with the court.
Is your loved one’s bail excessive? What you can do
If a bail amount seems far out of proportion to the charge, or is simply impossible for the family to meet, there are real options:
Raise it at the arraignment. The first court appearance is a natural point to address bail. A defense attorney can argue for a lower amount or non-monetary release right there.
File a motion to reduce bail. A defense lawyer can formally ask the court to lower bail, presenting evidence about the person’s finances, ties to the community, and lack of flight risk.
Request a Humphrey hearing. This is the hearing where the judge specifically reviews ability to pay and less restrictive alternatives, and must state reasons on the record.
Post the current bail now, argue later. You don’t have to leave someone in custody while these motions play out. A bail agent can post the existing amount immediately so your loved one is released, and the attorney can still pursue a reduction.
That last point matters. Fighting an excessive bail amount in court and getting someone out of jail are not either-or. Often the fastest, least stressful path is to post a bond right away and let the defense attorney address the amount from a position of freedom rather than a cell.
Bail higher than you can handle? Let’s talk through your options.
A bail bond exists precisely for the situation where the full bail amount is out of reach. Instead of paying the entire bail to the court in cash, you pay a licensed bail agent a premium set by California law at 10% of the full bail amount, and the agent posts the full bond on your behalf. On a $50,000 bail, that’s a $5,000 premium — and we offer payment plans and easy-to-qualify terms to make even that manageable.
In Kern County, first bail amounts come from the county’s felony and misdemeanor bail schedules and are addressed by the Superior Court — for in-custody cases, usually at the Metropolitan Division in downtown Bakersfield. If you believe a bail is excessive, the same tools apply: a defense attorney can seek a reduction or a Humphrey hearing, and we can post the current amount immediately so your loved one is home while the case moves forward. Not sure where your loved one is being held? Start with our Kern County inmate locator.
Frequently asked questions
What is the definition of excessive bail?
Excessive bail is bail set higher than reasonably necessary to ensure the defendant returns to court and to protect public safety. The Eighth Amendment prohibits it, and the Supreme Court held in Stack v. Boyle that any amount beyond what’s needed to secure a defendant’s appearance is excessive.
Does the Constitution set a maximum bail amount?
No. The Eighth Amendment bans excessive bail but sets no dollar figure. Whether bail is excessive is decided case by case, based on the charges, the defendant’s record and community ties, flight risk, public safety, and — in California — ability to pay.
What is a Humphrey hearing?
It’s a hearing, named after In re Humphrey, where a California judge reviews a defendant’s ability to pay and considers less restrictive alternatives to cash bail. If the court wants to keep someone in custody, it must justify that with clear and convincing evidence.
Can I get someone out while we’re fighting the bail amount?
Yes. You can post the current bail through a bond immediately — your loved one is released — while a defense attorney separately asks the court to reduce the amount. The two happen in parallel.
How much does a bail bond cost?
The premium is 10% of the full bail amount, set by California law and the same at every licensed bondsman. We offer flexible payment plans and easy-to-qualify terms.
A note on legal advice. This page explains general California bail law and is not legal advice. Every case is different. For advice about a specific bail amount or a motion to reduce it, talk with a criminal defense attorney. For posting bail right now, we’re here 24/7.
About Cowboy Bail Bonds
For more than 50 years, Cowboy Bail Bonds has helped Kern County families navigate the bail process from our office at 1710 Blanche Street in Bakersfield. When a bail amount feels impossible, we explain your options clearly and get your loved one home fast. We’re available 24 hours a day, every day, including holidays. Bilingual agents on staff. Se Habla Español. California Bail License #1841598.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense that can cause harm to oneself and others. That’s why law enforcement authorities set up DUI checkpoints in Bakersfield to stop and screen drivers for intoxication.
If you’re living in or traveling to Bakersfield, CA, it’s wise to know how to find DUI checkpoints and what to do if you come across one.
To help you understand this a little better, let’s break down a few tips when dealing with DUI checkpoints in Bakersfield.
How DUI Checkpoints Work in California (and Whether They’re Legal)
Sobriety checkpoints are legal in California. In the landmark case Ingersoll v. Palmdale, the California Supreme Court ruled that DUI checkpoints are constitutional as long as law enforcement follows specific guidelines meant to protect drivers’ rights:
Supervising officers make the decisions. Field officers can’t randomly pick who to stop — the operation is planned by supervisors in advance.
A neutral formula decides which cars stop. Police use a set pattern (for example, every third or fifth vehicle) rather than singling out individual drivers.
The location and timing must be reasonable and based on data about where impaired-driving crashes happen.
Checkpoints are publicly announced in advance, usually with the general area and date released to local media.
Stops must be brief. If there’s no sign of impairment, you should be waved through quickly.
Because they’re announced ahead of time, you can often find upcoming Bakersfield and Kern County checkpoints through local news stations and the Bakersfield Police Department and Kern County Sheriff’s Office press releases on the day of the operation.
1. Know the locations
DUI checkpoints in Bakersfield, CA, are usually set up in areas with a high incidence of DUI incidents or accidents. These could be major roads, highways, or intersections that see a lot of traffic or are around or near popular late-night drinking establishments.
In Bakersfield, this might be downtown or near Rosedale Highway, Ming Avenue, and Stockdale Highway.
If you’re not sure of the exact locations of DUI checkpoints in Bakersfield, you can ask around from friends or family members living in the city, or you might be able to find some information on an app like Waze.
2. Be prepared for DUI checkpoints in Bakersfield
If you’re driving around Bakersfield, CA, always make sure you’re carrying your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Have them ready to show the officers when asked.
Make sure your car is in good working condition and all safety features are operational. Don’t drink and drive, and avoid being under the influence of any drugs, as this can land you in legal trouble.
3. Stay calm and cooperative
If you come across a DUI checkpoint, stay calm, and follow the officers’ instructions. Roll down your window, turn off your music, and listen to what they have to say.
Be honest if you have been drinking or have taken any drugs, but also know that you have rights and don’t have to answer any questions that might self-incriminate you. Don’t act belligerent or resist the officers, as this can escalate the situation and lead to arrest.
4. Know your rights
As a driver stopped at a DUI checkpoint in Bakersfield, you have certain rights protected by the law. While you might be able to legally refuse to take a field sobriety test or a breathalyzer, this could lead to your arrest and a more intrusive blood alcohol test. Therefore, it is a personal choice. And don’t forget — you have the right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself, and you also have the right to ask for an attorney present during questioning or testing.
5. Get legal help
If you’re charged with DUI after a checkpoint stop, it’s important to seek legal help immediately. You don’t want to face the legal consequences of a DUI offense on your own. A DUI defense lawyer can advise you on how to proceed, represent you in court, and work to minimize or dismiss your charges. Remember, a DUI conviction can have long-term consequences on your personal and professional life, so it’s best to get help as soon as possible.
If you’re arrested and need to post bail, a Bakersfield bail bondsman can help. If you contact one locally, they can also help you navigate the bail process and put you into contact with anyone else you may need to contact during the legal process.
What Happens If You’re Arrested at a Bakersfield DUI Checkpoint
If an officer believes you’re impaired, you may be arrested and taken to jail for booking. In Bakersfield, DUI arrests are booked at the Sheriff’s Inmate Reception Center at the Lerdo Jail Complex, not at the old Central Receiving (now Metro Court Holding) downtown. Bail for a DUI depends on the circumstances — a first-offense misdemeanor DUI usually carries a lower, standard amount, while a felony DUI (one involving injury or multiple prior convictions) can be much higher. Our guide to DUI bail bonds breaks down what to expect.
If your loved one has been arrested at a checkpoint, you don’t have to wait it out. We can confirm the bail amount, explain the cost, and post the bond so they can get home. Check their booking status with our Kern County inmate locator or estimate the cost with our free bail bond calculator.
Locations change with each operation, but they’re typically set up on higher-traffic corridors on weekend and holiday nights. Because California requires advance notice, upcoming checkpoints are usually announced by local news and the Bakersfield Police Department beforehand.
Can I turn around to avoid a checkpoint?
Generally yes — you’re allowed to take a different legal route as long as you obey all traffic laws. Making an illegal or unsafe U-turn, though, can give an officer a separate reason to stop you.
Do I have to answer questions at a checkpoint?
You must provide your license, registration, and proof of insurance. Beyond that, you’re not required to answer potentially incriminating questions, and field sobriety tests are voluntary in California. Keep in mind that once you’re lawfully arrested for DUI, refusing a chemical (breath or blood) test carries its own license penalties under California’s implied-consent law. For guidance on a specific situation, talk to a licensed DUI attorney.
Are DUI checkpoints announced ahead of time in Bakersfield?
Usually, yes. California law requires that sobriety checkpoints be publicized in advance, so the general area and date are often shared through local news and the Bakersfield Police Department before the operation.
What happens to my license after a checkpoint DUI arrest?
A DUI arrest can trigger a separate DMV process that may suspend your license, on top of the criminal case. The two are handled separately, and there are strict deadlines to request a DMV hearing — talk to a licensed DUI attorney right away about protecting your driving privileges.
Getting arrested can be a nightmare, especially if you don’t know how to post bail. Fortunately, you can rely on Cowboy Bail Bonds to help you in this crucial situation.
Cowboy Bail Bonds is a trusted name in the bail bonds industry, servicing Bakersfield and the surrounding areas. We have years of experience in providing fast, reliable, and confidential bail bond services.
Let’s break down why we should be your go-to option when posting bail in Bakersfield, CA.
How to Post Bail in Bakersfield: Step by Step
“Posting bail” simply means arranging for someone’s release from custody while their case works through the courts. In Bakersfield and the rest of Kern County, here is what the process actually looks like:
Find out where they are being held. New arrests in Bakersfield are booked at the Sheriff’s Inmate Reception Center at the Lerdo Jail Complex (17801 Industrial Farm Rd), not downtown; the old Central Receiving (now Metro Court Holding) facility no longer books or houses anyone. You can confirm the location and booking status with our Kern County inmate locator.
Get the booking details. Have the person’s full name, date of birth, and — if possible — their booking number and charges ready. That lets us look up the exact bail amount.
Decide how to post bail. You can pay the full bail amount in cash directly to the court (refunded later if every court date is met), or use a bail bond, where you pay a state-regulated percentage and the bond company posts the full amount for you.
Contact a licensed bail agent. Call Cowboy Bail Bonds at 661-324-6009. We confirm the bail amount, explain the cost up front, and start the paperwork — by phone, online, or in person at our Bakersfield office.
Sign the bond and pay the premium. The co-signer (indemnitor) signs the agreement and pays the premium. We offer flexible payment plans when you need them.
We post the bond and your loved one is released. Once the bond is posted at the jail, release times depend on how busy booking is — often just a few hours.
What You’ll Need to Post a Bond
The full name and date of birth of the person in custody
The jail or facility where they are being held
A valid government-issued photo ID for the co-signer
The bail amount or the charges, if you have them (we can look this up for you)
Not sure what a bond will cost? Estimate it instantly with our free bail bond calculator, then call us for an exact quote and we’ll get the process started right away.
1. Need to post bail fast? Call Cowboy Bail Bonds.
One of the biggest advantages of working with Cowboy Bail Bonds is that we can help you post bail fast. Our team works around the clock to make sure that you can get out of jail as soon as possible. We understand that time is of the essence, especially when you’re facing criminal charges. That’s why we’ll process your bail bond application promptly, so you can come home to your family and loved ones as soon as possible.
2. We’ll walk you through the entire bail bond process
Posting bail can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. At Cowboy Bail Bonds, we’ll guide you through the entire process and answer any questions you may have. Our knowledgeable bail agents will explain the bail bond process and ensure that you understand your rights and responsibilities. You can count on us to take care of everything, from filling out the paperwork to providing regular updates on the status of your case.
3. Our services are available 24/7
At Cowboy Bail Bonds, we understand that emergencies can happen at any time. That’s why our services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can call us at any time, and we’ll be there to help you. We value your comfort and convenience, which is why we offer mobile services. Our bail agents can meet you at the jail or at a location of your choice, so you don’t have to worry about transportation.
4. Confidential and reliable bail bond services
At Cowboy Bail Bonds, we know that being arrested can be embarrassing and stressful. That’s why we offer confidential and reliable bail bond services. We’ll keep your information private and ensure that your case is handled with discretion. We also understand that posting bail can be costly, which is why we offer flexible payment options to fit your budget.
5. We genuinely care about our clients
At Cowboy Bail Bonds, we genuinely care about our clients. We understand that being arrested can be a traumatic experience, and we strive to make the process as stress-free as possible. We’ll provide you with the support and empathy you need during this difficult time. You can trust us to handle your case with professionalism, compassion, and integrity.
How to Post Bail in Bakersfield: FAQs
How long does it take to post bail in Bakersfield?
Once the bond is posted at the jail, release usually happens within a few hours, though it depends on how busy booking is at the time. We can begin the paperwork the moment you call, day or night.
Do I need money up front to post bail?
With a bail bond you pay a state-regulated percentage of the full bail rather than the whole amount, and we offer flexible payment plans if you need them. Call us and we’ll walk you through the options.
Can I post bail in the middle of the night or on a weekend?
Yes. Arrests don’t keep business hours and neither do we — Cowboy Bail Bonds is available 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
What information do you need to get started?
Just the full name and date of birth of the person in custody and where they’re being held. If you have the booking number or charges, that helps us confirm the exact bail amount faster.
We can provide you with a list of average bail amounts by crime, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
For starters, just because there’s an average bail amount, does not mean that a person charged with that particular crime will have their bail set at or near that average amount.
The average bail should be looked at as more of a “recommendation” by the court. You may receive a higher or lower bail amount based on your criminal history and individual circumstances. It is also possible that you do not get bail at all, and you’re required to remain in jail while you await trial.
This being said, let’s take a look at some of the most common crimes and their average bail amounts.
$25,000 – $100,000+ (sales and trafficking can run far higher)
Burglary
$20,000 – $100,000
Assault
$10,000 – $50,000+
*These are illustrative ranges only, not official amounts. A Kern County judge can set bail higher or lower — or deny it entirely — based on the individual case.
How Bail Amounts Are Set in Kern County
In Kern County, most bail amounts start from the Kern County Superior Court’s annual bail schedule — a published list that assigns a standard amount to each charge. When someone is booked at the Sheriff’s Inmate Reception Center at the Lerdo Jail Complex, the jail uses that schedule to set an initial bail, which is why a person can often post bail before ever seeing a judge. At arraignment, a judge can raise, lower, or eliminate bail based on the person’s criminal history, the specific facts of the case, flight risk, and public-safety concerns. That is why two people arrested for what sounds like the “same” charge can end up with very different bail. For more, see how bail is set in Kern County.
Remember: these are the full bail amounts. With a bail bond you pay only a state-regulated percentage — not the whole thing. Estimate your cost with our free bail bond calculator, or call for an exact quote once you know the charge.
No. They are typical ranges only. A judge in Kern County can set bail higher or lower — or deny bail entirely — based on the individual circumstances of the case.
Do I have to pay the full bail amount?
Only if you post cash bail directly with the court. With a bail bond, you pay a state-regulated percentage of the full amount and Cowboy Bail Bonds posts the rest so your loved one can be released.
Where can I find the official Kern County bail schedule?
The Kern County Superior Court publishes an updated felony and misdemeanor bail schedule each year. If you tell us the charge, we can look up the standard bail amount and give you an exact cost to post bail — just call 661-324-6009.
If you’re working with a bail bond company, then you don’t have to pay the full bail amount to court. Learn more about how to calculate bail bonds.
Can I get my bail lowered in Kern County?
Possibly. At arraignment — or through a separate bail motion — a defense attorney can ask the judge to reduce bail based on things like ties to the community, steady employment, and low flight risk. In some cases a judge may release a person on their own recognizance (O.R.) with no bail at all.
What is the difference between the bail amount and what I actually pay?
The bail amount is the full figure the court sets. If you post a bail bond, you pay only a percentage of that (the premium) and the bond company guarantees the rest, so you are never out the entire amount. Use our free bail bond calculator to estimate it.
How fast can I bail someone out once I know the amount?
Often within a few hours. As soon as you have the charge and bail amount, we can start the paperwork immediately — any time of day — and post the bond at the jail. Call us at 661-324-6009 to get started.
Need help posting bail? Cowboy Bail Bonds can help.
Assault charges in California can lead to immediate arrest and booking into county jail. When someone is arrested for assault, one of the first questions families ask is whether bail is available and how quickly the person can be released.
In many cases, bail allows a defendant to be released from jail while their case moves through the court system. Understanding how bail works for assault charges can help families take action quickly and begin the release process.
Is Assault a Bailable Offense in California?
Yes, most assault charges in California are eligible for bail. After an arrest, the defendant is booked into jail and a bail amount is assigned based on the county’s bail schedule.
Once bail is posted, the defendant may be released from custody while awaiting future court hearings. The court may also impose conditions on the release depending on the circumstances of the case.
Common release conditions may include:
No contact with the alleged victim
Stay-away or restraining orders
Mandatory court appearances
Restrictions on returning to certain locations
Types of Assault Charges in California
Assault-related charges can vary depending on the situation and the level of alleged violence. Some common assault charges include:
Simple assault
Assault with a deadly weapon
Aggravated assault
Battery causing injury
The severity of the charge often determines the bail amount and the potential penalties if the individual is convicted.
Typical Bail Amounts for Assault Charges
Bail amounts for assault charges vary depending on the type of offense and the circumstances surrounding the arrest. Local bail schedules provide recommended bail amounts for common charges.
A judge may increase or decrease bail depending on factors such as prior criminal history, probation status, or the seriousness of the alleged incident.
How Bail Bonds Work for Assault Charges
If the full bail amount cannot be paid in cash, a bail bond may be used to secure release from jail.
A licensed bail bondsman posts the bond on behalf of the defendant. Instead of paying the full bail amount, families typically pay a small percentage of the total bond amount.
The bail bond company then guarantees the full amount to the court.
The process generally works like this:
The bail bond company posts the full bond amount
The defendant is released from jail
The defendant must attend all court hearings
The case continues through the legal system
How Long Does Release Take After Bail Is Posted?
Once bail is posted, the jail must complete the release process before the defendant can leave custody. In many cases, release occurs within a few hours, though processing times can vary.
Release time may depend on several factors including:
How busy the jail is
Weekend or holiday processing delays
Administrative paperwork
Additional booking procedures
Understanding Bail for Different Types of Arrests
Assault is just one type of offense where bail may be required. Many other arrests also involve bail, including DUI charges and drug possession offenses.
If you want to learn how bail works in other situations, you may also find these resources helpful:
If someone you care about has been arrested for assault, understanding the bail process is an important first step toward securing release.
A bail bondsman can explain your options, help determine the bail amount, and begin the process of posting bail so your loved one can return home while their case moves through the courts.
A domestic violence arrest in Bakersfield can happen suddenly and leave families unsure how the legal process works. One of the first concerns after an arrest is understanding whether bail is available and how quickly someone can be released from jail.
Domestic violence charges in California are taken very seriously by law enforcement and the courts. In most cases, however, bail may still be available depending on the circumstances of the arrest and the individual’s criminal history.
If someone you care about has been arrested for domestic violence in Kern County, understanding the bail process can help you make informed decisions and begin the release process as quickly as possible.
Is Domestic Violence a Bailable Offense in California?
Yes, most domestic violence charges in California are eligible for bail. After an arrest, the individual is typically booked into the Kern County jail system where a bail amount is assigned according to the county bail schedule.
Once bail is posted, the defendant may be released from custody while awaiting future court hearings. However, the judge may impose additional conditions as part of the release.
These conditions can include:
Protective or restraining orders
No contact with the alleged victim
Restrictions on returning to the residence
Mandatory court appearances
Violating these conditions can result in immediate arrest and additional criminal charges.
Typical Bail Amount for Domestic Violence in Bakersfield
The bail amount for domestic violence charges depends on several factors including the severity of the incident, prior criminal history, and whether injuries were involved.
Kern County follows a standard bail schedule that assigns recommended bail amounts for different offenses. While the exact amount can vary, common ranges may include:
Misdemeanor domestic battery: $10,000 – $20,000
Corporal injury to a spouse or partner: $25,000 – $50,000+
Domestic violence involving serious injury: $50,000 or higher
In some cases, a judge may increase bail if the defendant is considered a risk to the alleged victim or the community.
How Domestic Violence Bail Bonds Work
Posting bail allows a defendant to be released from jail while their case proceeds through the court system. However, paying the full bail amount in cash can be difficult for many families.
A bail bond allows a licensed bail bondsman to post the bond on behalf of the defendant.
Instead of paying the full bail amount, families typically pay a small percentage of the bond. The bail bond company then guarantees the full amount to the court.
The process generally works as follows:
The bail bond company posts the bond
The defendant is released from jail
The defendant must attend all court appearances
The case proceeds through the legal system
How Long Does It Take to Get Released?
After bail is posted, the jail must complete processing before the individual can be released. In many cases, release can happen within a few hours, though it may take longer depending on jail workload.
Factors that may affect release time include:
How busy the jail is at the time
Weekend or holiday processing delays
Additional booking procedures
Administrative paperwork
Working with an experienced bail bond agency can help ensure the process begins quickly and the paperwork is handled correctly.
Domestic Violence Charges and Protective Orders
In many domestic violence cases, the court will issue a protective order after the arrest. These orders can prohibit contact with the alleged victim and may require the defendant to stay away from certain locations.
Even if bail is posted and the defendant is released from jail, these court orders must be strictly followed. Violating a protective order can lead to new criminal charges and immediate arrest.
Understanding the Bail Process for Different Charges
Domestic violence is only one type of arrest where bail may be required. Other common charges that involve bail include DUI arrests and drug possession offenses.
If someone you care about has been arrested for domestic violence in Bakersfield or anywhere in Kern County, understanding the bail process is the first step toward securing release.
A licensed bail bondsman can explain your options, answer questions about the bail amount, and begin the process of posting bail so your loved one can return home while their case moves forward.
A DUI arrest in Kern County can happen unexpectedly and often leaves families unsure what to do next. One of the first concerns after an arrest is understanding how bail works and how quickly someone can be released from jail.
If someone has been arrested for driving under the influence in Bakersfield or anywhere in Kern County, bail may allow them to leave jail while their case moves through the court system. Understanding the bail process can help you act quickly and reduce time spent in custody.
Is DUI a Bailable Offense in Kern County?
Yes. In most cases, DUI charges in California are eligible for bail. After an arrest, the individual is booked into the Kern County jail system where a bail amount is assigned according to the county bail schedule.
Bail allows the defendant to be released from custody while awaiting future court appearances. Once bail is posted, the jail begins the release process.
Typical DUI Bail Amount in Kern County
The exact bail amount for a DUI arrest depends on the specific charge and circumstances. However, Kern County generally follows a bail schedule that assigns standard bail amounts for common offenses.
Typical DUI bail ranges may include:
First-time misdemeanor DUI: $5,000 – $10,000
DUI with prior offenses: $10,000 – $25,000+
Felony DUI (injury involved): $50,000+
A judge may adjust bail depending on criminal history, probation status, or other aggravating circumstances.
How DUI Bail Bonds Work
Many families cannot afford to pay the full bail amount upfront. A bail bond allows a licensed bail bondsman to post the bond on behalf of the defendant.
Instead of paying the full bail amount, families typically pay a small percentage to the bail bond company. The bondsman then posts the full bond with the court to secure release.
The bail bond company posts the full bond
The defendant is released from jail
The defendant must attend all scheduled court appearances
How Long Does Release Take After Bail Is Posted?
Release time after bail is posted can vary depending on jail workload and processing times. In many cases, defendants are released within a few hours after the bond is posted.
During weekends or busy booking periods, the process may take longer. Working with an experienced bail bond agency can help ensure paperwork is completed quickly and the process moves as efficiently as possible.
Need DUI Bail Help in Kern County?
If someone you care about has been arrested for DUI in Bakersfield or anywhere in Kern County, Cowboy Bail Bonds is available 24 hours a day to help guide you through the bail process.
Our team can explain the bail process, answer your questions, and help start the release process as quickly as possible.
If you are researching bail amounts for different types of arrests, you may also want to review our guide on
bail for drug possession in California
, which explains how bail works for another common arrest scenario.
