What You Should Know About Getting a Bail Bond in California for DUI
Have you or someone you love been arrested for DUI in California? If you’ve never been through the process before, figuring out how to get out of jail can be daunting. You’ll want to be released from jail as soon as possible, so you can start the process of getting your life back to normal while you wait for your trial. We will describe the arrest, bail and bail bond differences, and the release process while explaining the importance of finding a reputable bail bond agent in California if you’ve been arrested for DUI.
The Arrest
The first step is the arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. An officer only needs to suspect that you might be driving under the influence to pull you over. Once they do, they can administer sobriety tests, including a breathalyzer test to determine your sobriety. If your blood alcohol content (BAC) is over California’s limit (0.08%), you will be arrested for a DUI.
The Arraignment
The next step is arraignment. This usually takes place a few hours after your arrest, but that can vary depending on when you were arrested. For instance, if you were arrested over the weekend or on a holiday, you’ll need to wait for the next business day.
The arraignment is when a judge will determine your total bail amount. Total bail amounts vary depending on the severity of the crime and whether you’re considered a flight risk. For instance, bail for a DUI will usually be lower if this is your first offense, and you have no prior criminal records. If this is your second time offense or more, your total bail amount will be higher.
After Bail Is Set
Once your total bail amount has been set, you can pay that amount, or you can start the process of getting a bail bond in California for DUI. You or a loved one will need either pay the total bail amount or contact a licensed bail bondsman in your area. Your total bail amount could be $10,000 or more – a pretty high amount – which means that many people cannot immediately find the funds to pay the full amount. Instead, bail bonds agents in California will post a bond on your behalf in exchange for a fee that’s equal to 10% of the total bail amount. For example, if the judge sets your bail at $20,000, you would pay a fee of $2,000 to the bail bondsman.
Release and Court Date
Once your total bail amount has been paid or a bond has been posted on your behalf, you will be released until your court date. This is when you will enter your plea and begin your trial (whether by a judge or jury, depending on your choice). It can be challenging to resume your life with a court date looming over you, but this is your chance to begin making important changes that will help prevent another DUI offense.
Common Questions About Getting a Bail Bond in California for DUI:
Most people who’ve never been arrested have several questions about bail bonds and the court process involved. These are answered below.
Do I get my 10% back after I go to court?
No, the 10% fee charged by the bail bondsman to post bond on your behalf is nonrefundable.
Can I keep my license if I get a DUI in Los Angeles?
Whether your DUI is in Los Angeles, San Diego, or another area of California, the judge will determine if you get to keep your license. This is usually determined by factors such as how many DUIs you’ve had, whether any accidents were involved, and similar questions.
What happens if I don’t show up for my court date?
You must come to your court date(s) after being released from jail. If you don’t, the court will issue a warrant for your arrest and the bail bond agent will track you down.
In Conclusion
Ultimately if you do not have enough money available to pay your total bail amount, working with a bail bondsman and getting a bond posted on your behalf is an essential step after your arrest. Working with a licensed bail bond agent will ensure that you’re able to get back to living your life while you wait for your court date, and it means that you’re not forced to wait in jail for weeks or months. We hope this article about getting a bail bond in California for DUI saves you some time and trouble.