Committing vandalism is a criminal act that involves the intentional destruction or damage of property. It encompasses a wide range of behaviors, from graffiti and property defacement to more serious acts of destruction. In the legal system, those arrested for vandalism may face misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the circumstances, and they might be required to repay the value of the damaged property. When individuals find themselves arrested for vandalism, one important thing that they need to know is how much will the total bail amount be.
Bail Amounts for Vandalism
The total bail amount for vandalism cases are typically determined by a bail schedule, which outlines predetermined bail amounts for various offenses. Total bail amounts can vary depending on factors such as the severity of the vandalism, the extent of property damage, and the individual’s criminal history. In California, for example, the bail schedule for vandalism can range from a few hundred dollars for minor acts of property defacement to thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars for more significant acts of vandalism.
The specific bail amount for vandalism charges depends on several factors, including the severity of the offense and the value of the damaged property. Under California penal codes, vandalism can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanor vandalism typically involves property damage worth less than $400, while felony vandalism charges may apply when the damage exceeds this threshold or if the act involves certain aggravating factors.
Commonly Used Defenses for Vandalism Charges
When charged with vandalism, defendants have the right to hire a defense attorney to protect their rights and potentially reduce the total bail amount. Common defenses for vandalism include lack of intent. This is when a defendant argues that they did not intentionally commit the act of vandalism, and lack of evidence, where the defendant challenges the prosecution’s case on the basis of insufficient evidence.
Defendants may also argue that they were unaware that the property belonged to another person, or that they believed they had permission to damage the property. Additionally, they can assert that they were falsely accused, or mistaken identity played a role in their arrest for vandalism.
Bail Bonds for Vandalism
Once the total bail amount is set, individuals have the option to post bail to secure their temporary release from custody while awaiting trial. Securing your release from jail can be done in different ways, and one common approach is to seek the assistance of a local, reputable bail bondsman or bail agent. A bail bondsman is a licensed professional who specializes in providing bail bond services to individuals facing criminal charges.
When working with a bail bondsman, the defendant or their family pays a non-refundable fee, typically around 10% of the total bail amount. The bail bondsman then posts bond on behalf of the defendant, assuring the court that the defendant will appear for all scheduled court dates.
By utilizing the services of a bail bond company, defendants can secure their release from jail without having to pay the total bail amount upfront. If you have been granted a total bail amount for vandalism and are looking to work with a bail bondsman, use our online vandalism bail bond fee calculator to determine the non-refundable fee you’ll need to pay a bail bond agent. Additionally, Bail Agent Network is proud to offer the largest online directory of bail bonds agents. Use our directory to find a bail bond company that meets your needs!