Right now, a bunch of propositions are on the ballot. So, there will be some voting to see whether or not we go to a basically no-bail situation.
This would be where the bail bond companies will be cut out and it would be more like the federal system, where you'll either be released or detained or there will be some other form like a property bond or a signature bond. The potential changes in the bail situation in Los Angeles county could bring hope and relief to many.
As I write this piece for my website, there is an emergency bail order in Los Angeles County. This order, issued in response to [specific event or reason], has significantly changed the bail process. All bail is basically that the person is released on their own recognizance with a promise to appear in court.
Exceptions to Getting Released Without Posting Bail
There are, of course, exceptions, as there are to everything in life, for more serious cases, like murder cases, sex crime cases, domestic violence cases, and a whole slew of other cases. The three strikes law, of course, applies as well. If you're a third striker, you're not going to be released on your recognizance.
I think right now, the bail in Los Angeles county is in a state of disarray. It is very unclear. So, if you or a loved one has been arrested for a crime, hiring a great criminal defense attorney to help you is crucial. A criminal defense attorney can navigate the complex bail process, argue for your release on your own recognizance, or negotiate with the court for a lower bail amount. Because, a lot of times, we can get you out on your recognizance.
There are all sorts of different things that we can do — even if it's a much lower bail than you're used to, there's still a good chance of getting out.
Bail Bond Companies
Another big thing is that bail bond companies are desperate for business right now. They are concerned they will go out of business, so many of them are slashing and cutting their prices.
So, where it always used to be 10% of whatever the bail was, if it were $100,000.00 bail, you'd have to pay the bond company $10,000.00 to get your back. That would be non-refundable, and on a bond that high, you'd probably have to come up with some sort of collateral.
In case you flee, the bail bond company will have to pay that $100,000.00, so they'll want something of value as collateral, such as a home or a car.
But in today's bail in Los Angeles county, I'm seeing them slash their 10% down to 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%. I also see them not taking collateral on a lot of these bonds. So, there's definitely a good chance to get out. Again, you want your attorney to help you coordinate getting out of custody.
I stand ready to help you. For the last 26 years, I've argued many bails as a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles County, and I've had great success.
Next Step in Preparing Your Defense
I have had great success related to bail over the last year, partially because of the Coronavirus and a host of other factors. So, we will see what happens in this election.
But no matter what happens, you can bet your bottom dollar that if you or a loved one is charged with a crime and you're going to have to face the judge or have bail placed on you, you're going to want an attorney by your side ready to fight for you.
Pick up the phone now. Ask to speak to Ron Hedding. I'm ready to help. Hedding Law Firm is a top-ranked criminal defense law firm located in Los Angeles County at 16000 Ventura Blvd #1208 Encino, CA 91436. Call (213) 542-0979 for a free case evaluation.