Burbank Bail Bonds FAQ

What is a bail bond?

A bail bond is another word for a surety bond, a legal guarantee by a state licensed bail bondsman who is supported by an insurance company. The bail bondsman guarantees the court the full payment associated with their release if the defendant fails to appear for a scheduled court appearance. It's imperative to always deal with a reputable and licensed bail bonds company so you can be sure the details of your release are being handled in accordance with the law.

How is bail decided and what is the cost?

Bail amount is determined by a judge. The figure will depend on the severity of the charges to the defendant, and can also fluctuate depending on the defendant's assessed flight risk. In the State of California, the cost of a bail bond is 10% of the total bail posted. This is a legal standard set by the Department of Insurance, and it is against the law to offer bail bonds services for less.

How can I pay for bail services?

We accept almost any form of payment, including all major credit cards and cash. Typically an advanced payment is necessary for posting bail for the release of any detainee. If you would like to make other arrangements, you may do so by contacting us.

Can I finance my bail?

Yes. Bail is not a planned expense, so we work closely with each customer and offer several financing options to help facilitate your bail. You can contact us any time to discuss financing terms.

What is personal recognizance?

On some occasions a judge may excuse bail based on extenuating circumstances and a commitment from the defendant to make all required court appearances. Though this is unusual, it can happen if the judge deems it appropriate.

Can I pay for the full bail myself?

By law, you have the option to pay the full amount of bail directly to the jail. This amount must be paid in cash and is held until all of the procedures and the court case are completely resolved. The defendant will have to post the entire amount in order to be released.

What are the usual procedures during arrest?

When someone gets arrested, they are typically taken to a local law enforcement station for processing and booking. This process includes fingerprinting, pictures and an addition of the arrest record to a nation-wide database. It can take up to 10 hours in county jails, but in local or city jails it can be faster due to lower volumes of detainees. Once this process is complete, the bail proceedings can begin. This process can differ based on locale. Check the following links should you need more specific booking and release information in Los Angeles.