California Bail Amounts Explained: Bail by Crime Type (2026 Guide)
If someone has been arrested in California, one of the first questions families ask is: How much is bail?
California counties follow official bail schedules that list preset amounts for specific offenses. While amounts vary slightly by county, most follow similar ranges for common crimes.
This guide breaks down bail amounts by offense category and explains how bail works across California.
How Bail Is Determined in California
After arrest and booking, bail is typically set according to the county’s official bail schedule.
A judge may increase or decrease bail based on:
- Prior criminal history
- Flight risk
- Severity of the alleged offense
- Community safety concerns
- Probation or parole status
In some serious felony cases, bail may be denied entirely.
DUI Bail Amount in California
Typical Bail Range: $5,000 – $25,000+
- First-time misdemeanor DUI: $5,000 – $10,000
- DUI with injury: $25,000+
- Felony DUI (multiple priors): $50,000+
- DUI causing great bodily injury: $100,000+
Can you be released without bail for DUI?
In some counties, first-time DUI suspects may be released on citation depending on circumstances.
Domestic Violence Bail Amount
Typical Bail Range: $20,000 – $75,000+
- Misdemeanor domestic battery: $20,000 – $30,000
- Corporal injury to spouse: $50,000+
- With prior convictions: Bail often increases significantly
Why is domestic violence bail higher?
Courts often set higher bail due to victim safety considerations.
Drug Charges Bail Amount
Typical Bail Range: $10,000 – $250,000+
- Simple possession: $10,000+
- Possession with intent to sell: $20,000 – $50,000+
- Drug trafficking: $100,000+
- Large-scale distribution: $250,000+
Are federal drug charges different?
Yes. Federal cases follow a separate detention process and may not follow standard bail schedules.
Assault & Violent Crimes Bail Amount
Typical Bail Range: $25,000 – $500,000+
- Simple assault: $25,000+
- Assault with deadly weapon: $50,000 – $100,000+
- Robbery: $100,000+
- Attempted murder: $500,000+
Enhancements such as gang involvement or great bodily injury can increase bail dramatically.
Theft, Burglary & Property Crimes
Typical Bail Range: $5,000 – $50,000+
- Petty theft (misdemeanor): $5,000 – $10,000
- Grand theft: $20,000+
- Commercial burglary: $20,000+
- Residential burglary: $50,000+
Weapons Charges Bail Amount
Typical Bail Range: $30,000 – $250,000+
- Felon in possession of firearm: $35,000+
- Illegal firearm sales: $100,000+
- Weapon with gang enhancement: Substantially higher
Sex Crime Bail Amount
Typical Bail Range: $100,000 – $1,000,000+
- Sexual battery: $100,000+
- Rape: $500,000+
- Lewd acts involving minors: $250,000+
These offenses often carry some of the highest bail amounts under California law.
When Is Bail Denied in California?
Bail may be denied in cases involving:
- Capital offenses
- Serious violent felonies
- Repeat offenders with violent histories
- Severe flight risk
A judge ultimately decides whether release is appropriate.
How Bail Bonds Work in California
Most families do not pay the full bail amount directly to the jail.
Instead, they work with a licensed bail bond company and pay approximately 10% of the total bail as a non-refundable premium.
Example:
- Bail set at $40,000
- You pay approximately $4,000
- The bail agent posts the full $40,000 with the jail
Release time depends on the jail facility and processing workload.
How Long Does Release Take After Bail Is Posted?
Release times in California typically range from:
- 2 – 6 hours for smaller local facilities
- 6 – 18+ hours for large county jails
High booking volume, inmate transfers, or administrative delays can extend this timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 10% bail premium refundable?
No. The bail bond premium is a non-refundable service fee.
Can bail be reduced?
Yes. A defense attorney may request a bail reduction hearing.
What happens if someone misses court?
The bail bond may be forfeited and a warrant may be issued.
Do all counties have the same bail schedule?
No. Each county sets its own schedule, though many follow similar ranges.
Need Immediate Help?
Iron Bail Bonds provides 24/7 bail bond services throughout California with fast approvals and flexible payment options.
