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 bail amounts for specific criminal offenses. While amounts can vary slightly by county, most jurisdictions follow similar ranges for common crimes.
This guide explains how bail is determined in California and outlines typical bail ranges for common charges.
California Bail Amounts by Offense Type
Each crime category has a different recommended bail range under California county bail schedules. Some offenses may qualify for release on citation, while others require significantly higher bail depending on circumstances.
For a detailed breakdown of DUI-related bail amounts, see our full guide:
DUI Bail Amounts in California →
How Bail Is Determined in California
After someone is arrested and booked into jail, bail is usually set according to the county’s official bail schedule.
A judge may increase or decrease bail depending on several factors:
- Prior criminal history
- Flight risk
- Severity of the alleged offense
- Public safety concerns
- Probation or parole status
In certain serious felony cases, bail may be denied entirely.
DUI Bail Amounts 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 the circumstances and jail policies.
Domestic Violence Bail Amount
Typical Bail Range: $20,000 – $75,000+
- Misdemeanor domestic battery: $20,000 – $30,000
- Corporal injury to spouse: $50,000+
- Cases involving prior convictions may result in higher bail
Courts often set higher bail for domestic violence charges 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 criminal cases follow a different detention process and may not use standard county bail schedules.
Assault and Violent Crime Bail Amounts
Typical Bail Range: $25,000 – $500,000+
- Simple assault: $25,000+
- Assault with a deadly weapon: $50,000 – $100,000+
- Robbery: $100,000+
- Attempted murder: $500,000+
Enhancements such as gang allegations or great bodily injury can increase bail significantly.
Theft, Burglary, and Property Crime Bail
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 a firearm: $35,000+
- Illegal firearm sales: $100,000+
- Weapon charges involving gang enhancements may carry significantly higher bail
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 determines whether release is appropriate based on the facts of the case.
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 booking workload.
How Long Does Release Take After Bail Is Posted?
Release timelines vary depending on the facility and booking volume.
- 2 – 6 hours at smaller local jails
- 6 – 18+ hours at large county jail facilities
Transfers, high inmate intake, or administrative processing may extend release times.
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 can 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 bail schedule, although many follow similar ranges.
Need Immediate Help?
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