Getting that phone call that a friend or loved one has been arrested is stressful. At Bada Bing Bail Bonds, we believe in giving you straight answers so you can make the right moves fast. Here are the most frequently asked questions we get about how bail works in California.
1. What exactly is a bail bond?
Think of a bail bond as an insurance policy for the court. When the court sets bail, they are asking for a financial guarantee that the defendant will show up for trial. Since most people don’t have thousands of dollars in cash lying around to pay the full amount to the court, you come to us. We post the bond for you, guaranteeing the court that the defendant will appear.
2. How much is this going to cost me?
In California, the standard cost (or “premium”) for a bail bond is set by law at 10% of the total bail amount.
Example: If bail is set at $20,000, you pay us $2,000.
Note: We offer flexible payment plans in many cases. Don’t let the sticker price scare you before you talk to us.
3. Do I get that 10% money back?
No. The 10% premium is the fee for our services and for taking on the financial risk of the bond. Once the defendant is released, that fee is fully earned and non-refundable—even if the case is dropped or the defendant is found innocent later.
4. How long does it take to get them out?
We move as fast as possible. Once the paperwork is signed and the bond is posted, it’s up to the jail’s processing times. Typically, release takes anywhere from 3 to 12 hours depending on how busy the facility is. We’ll keep you updated every step of the way so you aren’t left guessing.
5. What does it mean to “co-sign” a bond?
When you sign for a bail bond, you are the “indemnitor.” This is a serious responsibility. You are agreeing to two main things:
You guarantee the defendant will go to every single court date.
You agree to pay the full bail amount if the defendant runs away and cannot be brought back to court.
6. What happens if they miss a court date?
Mistakes happen, but communication is key. If it’s a simple mix-up, call us immediately so we can help reinstate the bond with the court. However, if the defendant completely flees (skips town), the court will issue a warrant for their arrest. As the co-signer, you become liable for the full debt, and we may have to employ recovery agents to bring them back.
7. Can I just pay the court directly?
Yes, this is called “Cash Bail.” You can hand the court the full bail amount (e.g., the full $20,000 in the example above). The court holds this money until the case is over.
The Upside: You get the money back at the end of the case (minus fees) if they attend court.
The Downside: It ties up a huge amount of your cash for months or even years. Most people prefer using a bondsman (paying the 10%) so they can keep their savings for legal fees or living expenses.
8. Why choose Bada Bing Bail Bonds?
Because we don’t judge, and we don’t waste time. We know the California jail systems inside and out. When you call us, you get rustic, reliable, no-nonsense service to get your loved one back home where they belong.
Need help now? Call Bada Bing Bail Bonds immediately. We are open 24/7. “When you’re in a sting, call Bada Bing!”
