Posting bail is often the first major step after an arrest — but it’s far from the last. Many people believe that once bail is paid, the legal process is over. Not true. In reality, posting bail is just the beginning of your journey through the court system.
What Is Bail, Exactly?
Bail is a financial guarantee to the court that the defendant will return for all scheduled hearings. It’s not a fine or admission of guilt. When someone posts bail — either directly or through a bail bond — they are released from jail while they await trial.
Immediate Steps After Posting Bail
Release from Custody: Once bail is posted, the jail will begin processing the defendant’s release. This typically takes 1–4 hours depending on the facility.
Paperwork & Conditions: The person being released will sign paperwork acknowledging the terms of their bail and court requirements.
Common Conditions of Release
When someone is released on bail, there are often conditions they must follow to stay out of custody:
Attend all court dates
Do not leave the county or state (unless approved)
Avoid contact with any alleged victims or co-defendants
Follow any protective orders
Check in with a bail agent or pretrial services, if required
Failure to meet these conditions could result in bail being revoked and the person being taken back into custody.
What Happens to the Money?
If bail was paid directly to the court (also called a cash bond), the money is usually returned after the case concludes — assuming all court dates were attended. However, if a bail bond was used, the 10% fee paid to the bail bondsman is non-refundable. It’s the cost of the service.
What Comes Next?
📅 1. Court Appearances
After release, the next step is showing up for all scheduled court hearings. These may include:
Arraignment
Pre-trial conferences
Motions or evidentiary hearings
The actual trial, if it gets that far
🔍 2. Preparing Your Defense
Time out on bail gives defendants the opportunity to:
Hire an attorney or work with a public defender
Gather evidence and witnesses
Build a case strategy
⚖️ 3. Potential Plea or Trial
Depending on the case, the defendant may negotiate a plea deal or proceed to trial. If convicted, the court may consider their bail behavior (showing up, obeying orders) when determining sentencing.
What If You Miss a Court Date?
This is serious. Missing a court appearance is called a bail jump and usually leads to:
A bench warrant for arrest
Loss of the bail amount (whether cash or bond)
Additional charges for failure to appear
If you have a valid reason — like a medical emergency — your attorney should notify the court as soon as possible.
How Cowboy Bail Bonds Helps
We don’t just post bail and disappear. At Cowboy Bail Bonds, we guide you through the entire process, including what to expect after release. We also provide reminders about court dates and support to help you stay compliant with bail conditions.
Need Help Posting Bail?
If you’re dealing with a recent arrest, time is of the essence. Contact us anytime — 24/7 — and we’ll explain your options clearly and compassionately.
If you or a loved one has been arrested, one of the first questions is often, “How much is bail going to cost?” The answer depends on several factors — including the charge, criminal history, and even the county or state. In this guide, we break down average bail amounts by offense type and offer a general overview of what to expect.
Understanding How Bail Works
Bail is the amount of money a court sets to ensure a defendant returns for future court dates. It’s not a punishment — it’s a financial guarantee. If the person appears in court as required, the bail is returned (minus any fees). If they skip court, the bail is forfeited.
What Affects Bail Amounts?
🔸 Severity of the crime
🔸 Prior criminal history
🔸 Flight risk (likelihood of fleeing)
🔸 Public safety concerns
🔸 Local bail schedules (some counties and states have preset amounts)
Typical Bail Amounts by Type of Offense
🛑 Felony Charges
Felonies are the most serious crimes and typically carry the highest bail amounts. These vary significantly by state and crime severity.
Assault with a Deadly Weapon: $25,000 – $100,000
Armed Robbery: $50,000 – $250,000
Homicide (non-capital): $250,000 – $1,000,000+
Drug Trafficking: $50,000 – $500,000+
📍 In California, for example, bail for felony assault is commonly set between $30,000 and $50,000, depending on whether a weapon was involved. In Texas, it can exceed $100,000 if there’s intent to harm.
🚔 Misdemeanor Charges
Misdemeanors are considered less serious than felonies but can still carry significant bail amounts, especially if it’s a repeat offense.
Petty Theft: $500 – $2,000
Simple Assault: $1,000 – $5,000
Vandalism: $1,000 – $10,000
Public Intoxication: $250 – $1,000
📍 In New York, misdemeanor assault may result in a bail of $2,500. In Florida, that same charge might average around $1,000, depending on the county.
🚗 DUI & Traffic-Related Offenses
Driving under the influence (DUI) and other traffic-related crimes often carry automatic bail amounts based on local schedules.
First-Offense DUI: $500 – $2,500
DUI with Injury: $10,000 – $50,000
Driving with a Suspended License: $500 – $5,000
Hit and Run: $5,000 – $25,000
📍 In California, first-time DUI bail is often around $2,500, while a DUI causing injury can reach $50,000. In Illinois, bail for a first DUI might be closer to $1,000.
🏠 Domestic Violence & Restraining Order Violations
These types of charges are taken very seriously and often come with high bail amounts to ensure victim protection.
Domestic Battery: $5,000 – $50,000
Violation of Restraining Order: $10,000 – $100,000
📍 In Nevada, violating a protection order can carry bail around $15,000, but in some California counties, that same charge can exceed $50,000, especially if there’s a history of violence.
📦 Drug Possession
Possession charges range widely based on drug type, amount, and prior record.
Possession of Marijuana (non-legal states): $500 – $2,500
Possession of Controlled Substances (like cocaine, heroin): $2,000 – $10,000
📍 In Texas, possession of less than one gram of a controlled substance can result in a $5,000 bail. In Georgia, similar charges start at around $2,500.
💻 White Collar Crimes
These non-violent crimes often come with high bail due to the large sums of money involved or potential flight risk.
Fraud: $10,000 – $100,000+
Embezzlement: $25,000 – $200,000+
Identity Theft: $10,000 – $50,000
📍 In states like California or New Jersey, embezzlement cases over $100,000 could easily push bail past $250,000.
What If You Can’t Afford Bail?
That’s where bail bondsmen like Cowboy Bail Bonds come in. Instead of paying the full amount upfront, you only pay a percentage — usually 10% — and we handle the rest. Many agencies (including us) offer payment plans to make the process more accessible for families in crisis.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond bail, you may also be responsible for:
⚖️ Court fees
👨⚖️ Attorney fees
🔍 Monitoring or GPS ankle bracelet fees
📜 Fines if convicted
Bail Reform and State Variations
Some states (like New Jersey and Illinois) have significantly limited cash bail or eliminated it altogether for most non-violent offenses. Others, like Texas and California, still rely heavily on traditional bail systems but have added reforms to reduce excessive bail for low-risk individuals.
Need Help Navigating the Process?
No matter where you are, Cowboy Bail Bonds is here to help. With decades of experience, we’ve supported thousands of families through tough moments. If you’re unsure how much bail will cost — or what options you have — contact us for expert guidance and 24/7 service.
Getting arrested is scary — and many people immediately ask the same question: “Can I get out on bail?” While most cases allow for some type of bail or release, there are situations in California where bail can be denied altogether.
When Can Bail Be Denied?
In California, bail can be denied in two key scenarios:
Capital Crimes: If someone is charged with a crime punishable by death (like certain types of murder), the court can deny bail entirely.
Clear Public Safety Threat: If a judge believes the accused poses a serious danger to others or is likely to flee before trial, bail can also be denied.
What Happens If Bail Is Denied?
If the court denies bail, the person must remain in custody until their trial or until another hearing reconsiders the issue. This is typically reserved for rare and extreme cases.
Is This Common?
No — most people are granted bail or released on their own recognizance (OR), especially for non-violent or first-time offenses. However, certain serious charges or repeat offenses may make it harder to qualify for release.
Can You Appeal a Denied Bail Decision?
Yes. Your attorney can request a bail review hearing. This gives you a chance to argue for a reduced bail amount or to be released under special conditions (like house arrest or supervision).
Bail Reform in California
California has made changes in recent years aimed at reducing jail time for people who simply can’t afford bail. Some counties use risk assessments and supervised release programs instead of relying solely on cash bail.
What to Do If You’re Denied Bail
If you or a loved one has been denied bail, don’t give up. Contact an experienced attorney and a trusted bail bonds agency like Cowboy Bail Bonds to discuss all available options. Even if bail was initially denied, circumstances can change.
We’re Here to Help
At Cowboy Bail Bonds, we’ve helped families across California navigate tough situations. If you’re unsure what your options are, reach out to us 24/7. We’ll guide you through your rights, explain what happens next, and offer support every step of the way.
Getting arrested is stressful enough — but not being able to afford bail can make things feel impossible. If you or a loved one is stuck in jail because bail is out of reach, don’t panic. There are steps you can take to get help and explore your options.
1. Understand What Bail Means
Bail is the amount of money set by the court to ensure that someone returns for their scheduled hearings. It’s not a fine or a punishment — it’s a guarantee. If you can’t pay the full amount, that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck.
2. Contact a Bail Bondsman
This is where companies like Cowboy Bail Bonds come in. Instead of paying the full bail amount yourself, you can pay a small percentage (usually around 10%), and a bail bondsman will post the full bail on your behalf.
This is often the fastest and most affordable way to get someone released.
3. Ask About Payment Plans
If even the 10% bond fee feels like too much, ask the bail company if they offer payment plans. At Cowboy Bail Bonds, we understand that emergencies don’t always line up with your paycheck — so we work with families to create flexible, realistic payment options.
4. Talk to a Public Defender or Attorney
In some cases, your attorney may be able to request a bail reduction hearing. If your bail was set too high for a minor offense or if you have strong ties to the community, the judge may agree to lower the amount or grant a release on your own recognizance (OR).
5. Know Your Rights
In California, bail cannot be used as a form of punishment. If the amount seems unusually high or unfair, your legal team may have grounds to challenge it. Judges must consider ability to pay as part of the bail-setting process.
6. Consider Pretrial Services or Supervised Release
Some counties offer alternatives to bail, especially for nonviolent offenders. This could include electronic monitoring, check-ins with a pretrial officer, or other supervised release programs. These options vary by location but can be discussed with your attorney.
7. Avoid High-Risk Lenders
Desperate situations can lead people to take out risky payday loans or borrow from predatory lenders. Always exhaust safer options first — including reaching out to a trusted bail agent — before turning to high-interest or risky financing sources.
We’re Here to Help
At Cowboy Bail Bonds, we’ve helped thousands of families get through moments like this. We know the process inside and out, and we’ll walk you through every step — judgment-free.
If you can’t afford bail, contact us now. We’re available 24/7 to help you explore your options and get your loved one home where they belong.
If you’ve never dealt with the bail process before, it’s easy to fall for the myths. Movies and TV shows often get it wrong—and misinformation spreads fast. In this blog, we’re busting five of the most common myths about bail bonds in California so you can make confident decisions when it counts.
Myth 1: You Have to Pay the Full Bail Amount Upfront
Truth: You only pay a small portion when you work with a licensed bail bondsman. In California, this is typically 10% of the total bail. So if bail is set at $10,000, you’d only pay $1,000 to post bail through Cowboy Bail Bonds.
Myth 2: Bail Bondsmen Can Negotiate the Bail Amount
Truth: Only judges can change or reduce bail amounts. Bail bond agents help you post bail—but they do not influence the court’s decision. To understand how bail is set, read How Bail Is Set in Kern County.
Myth 3: You Only Have One Chance to Bail Someone Out
Truth: If someone is re-arrested or their bail is revoked for any reason, you can work with a bondsman again. The process resets each time they’re taken into custody.
Myth 4: Bail Bonds Are Only for Serious Crimes
Truth: Bail bonds are used for all kinds of charges—from DUIs to minor misdemeanors. In fact, many people use bonds for smaller bail amounts to avoid paying thousands up front.
Myth 5: You’re Off the Hook Once Bail Is Paid
Truth: If you signed for someone’s bond, you’re legally responsible if they miss a court date. That’s why it’s important to know what to expect before signing. Learn more in our guide: What to Expect When You Call a Bail Bondsman in Bakersfield.
More Help from Cowboy Bail Bonds
Still have questions? You’re not alone. Bail can be confusing, but we make it easier with clear information and fast support. You might also want to check out:
Don’t let common myths keep you from making smart choices. The bail bond process in California is faster, easier, and more affordable than most people think. Contact Cowboy Bail Bonds anytime—day or night—for fast, judgment-free help when you need it most.
If someone is arrested in Kern County, one of the first questions families ask is: “How much will bail be?” The truth is, bail amounts aren’t random—they’re based on several legal and personal factors. Understanding how bail is determined can help you prepare and act quickly when it matters most.
What Is Bail and Who Sets It?
Bail is the amount of money someone must pay to be released from jail while awaiting trial. In Kern County, bail is typically set by a judge or determined by the Kern County bail schedule, which outlines standard bail amounts for different charges. For most misdemeanor and felony charges, a preset amount is used unless the court decides otherwise.
Top Factors That Influence Bail Amounts
1. Type and Severity of the Crime
The more serious the crime, the higher the bail. For example, a non-violent misdemeanor may have a low bail amount, while violent felonies or charges involving weapons, drugs, or threats to public safety usually carry much higher bail.
2. Criminal History
If the defendant has previous arrests or convictions, the judge may increase the bail or deny it altogether. A clean record could help reduce the amount or increase the chance of being released on their own recognizance (OR).
3. Flight Risk
Judges consider whether the defendant is likely to flee and avoid court. If the person has ties to the community, steady employment, and family in the area, bail may be set lower. If they have a history of skipping court dates, bail may be raised—or denied.
4. Public Safety
If the defendant is considered a danger to the community, the court may increase the bail amount significantly or refuse bail altogether.
5. Court Discretion
In some cases, the judge can override the bail schedule based on circumstances surrounding the arrest. This is more common during arraignment hearings or when bail reviews are requested.
What If You Can’t Afford Bail?
If bail is more than you can afford, don’t panic. You can work with a licensed bail bondsman like Cowboy Bail Bonds. Instead of paying the full amount, you’ll pay a small percentage (usually 10%), and we’ll handle the rest.
Related Reading
Want to learn more about how bail works and how fast someone can be released? Check out these helpful posts:
When someone is arrested in Kern County, understanding how bail is set can make a stressful situation easier to manage. If you’re unsure what to do next, call Cowboy Bail Bonds. We’re available 24/7 to walk you through the process and help you post bail quickly—no matter the charge.
It’s late Friday night. Someone you care about just got arrested. Now you’re wondering—can you bail them out over the weekend? The answer is yes! In California, including Kern County, bail bond services are available 24/7. Here’s what you need to know about weekend bail and how to move fast.
Is Weekend Bail Available in Kern County?
Yes. Jails operate 24/7, and so do licensed bail bond agents like Cowboy Bail Bonds. Even if courts are closed, you can still post bail over the weekend in most cases.
How the Weekend Bail Process Works
Call a bail bond agent. Give them the person’s full name, date of birth, and jail location.
The agent confirms bail eligibility. They’ll contact the jail and gather case details.
You sign paperwork and pay the fee. Most agents accept payment online or by phone.
Bail is posted, and the person is released. Release times vary by jail but can happen the same day—even on Sundays.
When You Can’t Bail Out on the Weekend
There are rare cases where bail must be set by a judge—especially for serious charges. If this happens after hours or on a holiday, the person may need to wait until the next court day.
Tips for Weekend Bail
Start the process as early as possible to avoid delays.
Have all key details ready (name, jail, birthdate, etc.).
Yes. Most jails allow bail 24 hours a day, even on weekends and holidays.
How long does it take to release someone on a weekend?
Release can take a few hours depending on the jail’s workload. Calling early speeds up the process.
Is weekend bail more expensive?
No. The bail amount is the same, regardless of the day. Some agents charge additional fees, but Cowboy Bail Bonds does not.
Conclusion
If someone you love is arrested on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, don’t wait until Monday. Bail them out today. Cowboy Bail Bonds is open 24/7—even on holidays. Call now to start the process and get them home fast.
If you or a loved one has been arrested in Bakersfield, calling a bail bondsman may be your next step. But before you pick up the phone, there are a few important things to know. Understanding the bail process can help you stay calm, ask the right questions, and get the help you need—fast.
What Is a Bail Bond?
A bail bond is a financial guarantee that allows someone who has been arrested to be released from jail while they await trial. Instead of paying the full bail amount upfront, you pay a percentage (usually 10%) to a licensed bail bond agent, like Cowboy Bail Bonds.
What You’ll Need Before You Call
Full Legal Name of the Person in Jail – This helps the bondsman locate their booking information.
Date of Birth – Another key detail for confirming identity in the system.
Jail Location – Be specific: Kern County Jail, Lerdo, or another nearby facility?
Booking Number (if known) – Not required but helpful for faster processing.
Questions to Ask Your Bail Bondsman
How much will it cost me out of pocket?
What are my payment options?
Are there any collateral requirements?
What happens if the defendant misses court?
How Fast Can Someone Get Out?
Release times vary by jail and how busy the facility is, but in many Bakersfield cases, release can happen within a few hours after bail is posted. Learn more about our Bakersfield bail bond services.
Legal and Financial Responsibilities
As the signer (co-signer) of the bail bond, you take financial responsibility if the defendant skips court. This includes paying the full bail amount if they cannot be located. Make sure you trust the person you’re bailing out. For help navigating this, check out our blog: What to Expect When You Call a Bail Bondsman in Bakersfield.
Conclusion
Calling a bail bondsman doesn’t have to be overwhelming. When you’re prepared with the right information, the process is faster and easier. If you’re in Bakersfield and need help now, contact Cowboy Bail Bonds anytime—day or night. We’re here to help 24/7.
If someone you care about has been arrested in Kern County, understanding how the bail process works can help ease the stress. Whether they’re being held in Bakersfield, Shafter, or another nearby city, this guide will walk you through the steps of posting bail in Kern County, California.
What Is Bail?
Bail is a set amount of money that acts as a promise the arrested person will return for court. If bail is paid, the person can be released from jail while they wait for their court date. In many cases, people use a bail bond service to help cover the cost.
How Bail Amounts Are Set in Kern County
Bail amounts are based on a schedule set by the county. The type of crime, criminal history, and risk of flight are all factors. After arrest, the person will appear before a judge who may adjust the bail amount or release them on their own recognizance (OR).
Where People Are Held in Kern County
In Kern County, most people arrested are taken to the Lerdo Jail facility in Bakersfield. Others may be held in city jails throughout the region, like in Taft or Ridgecrest.
How to Post Bail
There are a few ways to post bail in Kern County:
Pay the full amount directly to the jail or court
Use a bail bond agent (you pay a percentage, usually 10%)
Use collateral like property or a car title
Why Use a Bail Bondsman?
Most people can’t afford to pay the full bail amount. That’s where a bail bondsman comes in. You pay a smaller fee, and they take care of the rest. Cowboy Bail Bonds has years of experience working with Kern County jails and can walk you through every step of the process.
We’re available 24/7, even on weekends and holidays.
Information You’ll Need
Full name of the person in jail
Jail location (Lerdo, Bakersfield, etc.)
Date of birth
Booking number, if available
What Happens After Bail?
Once bail is posted, the person is released and must agree to appear in court on their scheduled date. If they don’t show up, the bail can be forfeited, and the co-signer may be held responsible.
Need Help? Call Cowboy Bail Bonds
If you need help bailing someone out in Kern County, our team is here to assist—fast. We’ve helped families in Bakersfield, Shafter, Delano, and other surrounding cities.
If your loved one has been arrested in Kern County, don’t panic. Cowboy Bail Bonds is here to help you through every step. Whether they’re in Bakersfield, Shafter, Taft, or another Kern County city, here’s what to expect when posting bail.
Step 1: Get Their Info
You’ll need their name, date of birth, and the jail where they’re being held. This helps us find their booking info fast.
Step 2: Call Cowboy Bail Bonds
We’re available 24/7. Call us anytime and we’ll take care of the rest.
Step 3: We Confirm the Bail
We’ll contact the jail to find out the bail amount and the charges. Once we have the info, we’ll explain the cost to you clearly.
Step 4: Sign the Paperwork
We’ll go over the agreement, and you’ll sign—either in person or electronically. It’s quick and secure.
Step 5: Release from Jail
Once the bond is posted and processed, your loved one will be released. We’ll let you know the time and location.
