Common Charges Requiring Bail in Bakersfield, CA

Not every arrest in Bakersfield leads to the same bail amount or process. Kern County uses a bail schedule that sets standard amounts for most common offenses, but judges can raise or lower bail depending on the circumstances. Knowing what types of charges typically require bail — and what those amounts look like — can help you prepare, make faster decisions, and avoid surprises. Here’s a breakdown of the most common charges in Bakersfield that require bail and how Cowboy Bail Bonds helps families handle them quickly and affordably.

How Bail Amounts Are Set in Kern County

Kern County follows a standard bail schedule that lists dollar amounts for each charge. When someone is arrested, that schedule helps officers and judges decide how much bail is required before release. Factors that affect the total include the severity of the offense, whether the person has prior arrests, and if the crime involved violence or property damage.

Bail can be paid in cash for the full amount or through a bail bond, which allows you to post a small percentage — usually 10% — through a licensed agency. Learn more about bail costs and options on our Bail Bonds Pricing in California page, or use our bail bond calculator to estimate your total based on the charges.

Common Offenses That Require Bail in Bakersfield

Below are some of the most frequent charges we see in Kern County and typical bail ranges based on recent court schedules. These amounts are approximate and can vary by case or judge discretion.

DUI (Driving Under the Influence)

Average bail range: $5,000 – $25,000

DUI is one of the most common reasons for arrest in Bakersfield. A first-time misdemeanor DUI typically carries a lower bail, around $5,000, while a repeat offense or DUI causing injury can raise bail to $25,000 or more. If an accident involves serious injury or death, the charge may become a felony DUI, increasing the bail amount substantially.

Bail can usually be posted within hours of booking at the Lerdo Jail Complex. Our team often handles DUI bail same-day to help clients return to work or family responsibilities quickly.

Domestic Violence

Average bail range: $25,000 – $50,000+

Domestic violence charges are taken seriously in Kern County, and bail is often higher than for non-violent misdemeanors. Common charges include corporal injury to a spouse or partner (Penal Code 273.5) and domestic battery (Penal Code 243(e)(1)). Bail can increase if there’s evidence of injury, prior convictions, or protective orders in place.

Because these cases can involve emergency protective orders, the bail process must move carefully. Cowboy Bail Bonds coordinates directly with the jail to ensure all conditions are followed before release.

Theft and Property Crimes

Average bail range: $2,500 – $20,000

Theft-related offenses in Bakersfield vary widely, from petty theft to felony burglary. A simple shoplifting charge might require a few thousand dollars in bail, while grand theft or commercial burglary can exceed $20,000. Repeat offenses or theft combined with another crime (such as vandalism or trespassing) can also raise bail amounts.

We regularly post bonds for theft-related cases in Kern County and can usually complete paperwork within an hour of booking verification.

Drug Possession or Sales

Average bail range: $10,000 – $100,000+

Drug charges cover a wide range of situations, from simple possession to possession with intent to sell or trafficking. A misdemeanor marijuana possession case (outside of current legal limits) might require minimal bail, while felony narcotics distribution or transport can easily exceed $100,000.

Our agents are experienced in handling drug-related bail across Kern County and can assist with cases that may require source-of-funds verification (known as a 1275 hold).

Assault and Battery

Average bail range: $10,000 – $50,000+

Simple assault or battery charges often begin around $10,000 in bail, but that number rises quickly if there’s evidence of injury or use of a weapon. Aggravated assault (Penal Code 245) or assault with a deadly weapon can result in much higher bail amounts, especially when classified as a felony.

Because assault-related arrests may involve victims or witnesses, processing at the jail can take longer. Cowboy Bail Bonds stays in touch with the jail and court to move the case forward as soon as bail is approved.

Weapons Charges

Average bail range: $15,000 – $50,000+

California’s firearm laws are strict, and carrying an unregistered or concealed weapon without a permit can lead to significant bail amounts. If the offense involves a firearm during another crime, bail is usually set near the top of the schedule or higher at the judge’s discretion.

For these cases, having a local agency familiar with Bakersfield’s court process is critical. Cowboy Bail Bonds helps clients secure release quickly while ensuring compliance with firearm restrictions and court requirements.

Other Common Offenses

• Probation violations: $5,000 – $20,000 depending on the original offense.
• Vandalism: $5,000 – $10,000 depending on damage amount.
• Hit and run: $10,000 – $50,000, higher if injuries occurred.
• Resisting arrest: $10,000 – $25,000 depending on the situation.

Why Local Knowledge Matters

Posting bail in Bakersfield isn’t just about paperwork — it’s about timing, communication, and knowing how the local system works. Kern County’s jails and courts have their own routines, and small mistakes can add hours of delay. Cowboy Bail Bonds operates directly out of Bakersfield, with agents who know local judges, clerks, and deputies. That means faster verification, faster approvals, and faster release times — often within a few hours of your first call.

If you’re unsure what bail might cost or how soon someone can be released, call us 24/7 or visit our contact page. We’ll verify charges, confirm bail, and walk you through next steps immediately.

Preparing for Court After Release

Once bail is posted and the person is released, it’s critical to attend every court hearing. Missing a court date can lead to a warrant and forfeiture of the bond. To understand what happens after release, read Bakersfield Arrested? Here’s What to Expect at the Kern County Court for a full breakdown of arraignments, hearings, and timelines.

Get Help Posting Bail for Any Charge in Bakersfield

No matter the charge — DUI, domestic violence, theft, or anything in between — Cowboy Bail Bonds can help you post bail quickly, legally, and confidentially. Our agents work around the clock to verify bail, prepare paperwork, and post bonds directly at Lerdo Jail and other Kern County facilities.

Call anytime for free information or start online through our contact form. For more insight into local bail and charges, visit:

How to Bail Someone Out of Lerdo Jail  |  Top 5 Things to Know About Bakersfield Bail Bonds  |  What to Expect at the Kern County Court