One of the first things most people want to know after they’ve been arrested is how soon they can get out. In most cases, the answer is that as soon as you post bail, you’re free to go. Some people assume that they’re required to post bail in California, but that’s not the case.
You’re not required to post bail in California.
If you decide that you’re not interested in posting bail in California, you will have to stay in jail until your case is either dropped or until your convicted. It’s difficult to guess how long that will take. It largely depends on if you decide to plead guilty right away or if you decide to let the case go to a jury trial. If you let the case go to trial, you could be sitting in a county jail cell for several long months.
There are a few benefits to choosing not to post bail in California, but not very many. The biggest benefit is that if you’re convicted and your sentence includes jail time, the judge will likely include time served on the sentence, which will reduce the length of time you have to spend in a state prison.
The other advantage is that as long as you’re in jail is that you don’t have to worry about doing any of the things, such as getting caught mixing with criminal elements, which would result in your bail getting revoked.
The problem with not posting bail is that you’re stuck in a jail cell. You won’t be able to work, which means you’ll likely fall behind on your bills and lose your car, health insurance, and home. Your entire family will suffer. You’ll also find that meeting with your lawyer is much more difficult when you’re incarcerated, which means you’ll have a harder time putting together a solid defense plan.
If you decide to post bail but aren’t able to come up with the full amount on your own, contact Bail Bonds in San Bernardino. We’re an experienced, bail bonds company that wants to help you get out of a jail cell and be reunited with your family.
Our outstanding California bail bonds services include: