Purpose of Orange County Bail Schedule
The Orange County bail schedule is comprised of felony and misdemeanor offenses that correspond with the amount of bail for the alleged crime or offense. Thus, it is utilized as a gauge to allow an arrestee to be released on bail pending the criminal charges against them. The Uniform Bail Procedures Committee is responsible for approval or any adjustments to the bail schedule every year pursuant to California Penal Code Section 1269b. The Uniform Bail Procedures Committee is made up of Orange County Superior Court Judges, with the Honorable Thomas M. Goethals currently sitting as chairman and supervising judge. The bail schedule is released for use once a year.
Exceptions To The Orange County Bail Schedule
In instances where the arresting peace officer finds “reasonable cause” for the arrestee to have a higher bail amount than that provided in the Orange County bail schedule , the peace officer must prepare a declaration under penalty of perjury (PC 1269c) setting forth the facts and circumstances in support of a higher bail amount. This places the burden on the law enforcement agencies to notify the judge if the bail schedule is not adequate for the crime.
Regardless of the above mentioned, it is your constitutional right (eighth amendment) to non-excessive bail. Someone arrested and detained for a criminal violation(s) of the law has the right to post bail or bail bond during this time. Capital crimes like murder with special circumstances would be an exception to the law. More information is provided in the Orange County bail schedule.
Bail schedule California can vary from county to county in the State of California. Bail schedule information may be obtained from the superior court website of the county you are inquiring about. Once you have located the local superior court of interest, use their search tool to located the, “bail schedule, court fines and fees” page. If you are unable to locate the information you are seeking, please call for assistance by calling 1-800-525-5915.
Orange County Bail Schedule, Court Fines, and Fees
The bail schedule outlines various court fines and fees imposed by the court during sentencing. Bail Bond fees are entirely separate from the court fines and fees. Average bail bond fees may range from 8% to 10% of the total amount of bail disclosed in the Orange County bail schedule. It is wise to consult with a bail bonds specialist regarding the bail bond process and release of your friend or loved one. The judge can also deviate from the bail schedule, fine and fees, reducing the amount to be paid. Depending on the circumstances of the criminal case, the judge may also reduce or raise the bail amount, determining your out of pocket expense. It is always recommended you consult with a criminal defense attorney in such complicated matters. They will be able to assist you and answer any legal questions that you may have.
As a general rule, the Orange County judges will follow the recommendations of the Detention & Release Officer and the Orange County bail schedule. However, as previously mentioned, the court may take into consideration the allegations and facts of the case to determine the amount of bail for the arrestee. Bail hearings are usually conducted to support a lower bail amount for the arrestee. If successful, the judge will reduce the high bail so the arrestee may post bail at an affordable amount. Regardless of the circumstances, the court will use the bail schedule as the mediator for bail.