California's statewide Penal Code also provides minimum bail amounts for certain crimes. If a county hasn't adopted a schedule, the statewide figures apply. For misdemeanor assault, for example, the Code mandates $10,000 minimum bail.
For misdemeanor simple assault, the average bail amount is $5,000 – $10,000. First-time simple assault offenses may sometimes qualify for release on recognizance or bail under $5,000.
California's statewide Penal Code also provides minimum bail amounts for certain crimes. If a county hasn't adopted a schedule, the statewide figures apply. For misdemeanor assault, for example, the Code mandates $10,000 minimum bail.
Common Bail Amounts Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs: $2,500 for a 1st offense, $10,000 for a 2nd offense, and $15,000 for a 3rd offense. Resisting an officer: $5,000. Burglary: $5,000. Hit and run with injury: $10,000. Battery: $8,000 for a 1st offense, $10,000 for a 2nd offense. Grand theft: $5,000.
Bailing someone out of jail who has a history of untrustworthy behavior can create headaches. You're essentially agreeing to put up 10 percent of a bail bond that could be tens of thousands — or even hundreds of thousands — of dollars. If they fail to show, then you went to all that extra trouble for nothing.
The decision to post bail for someone should not be taken lightly. Financially, you risk losing the bail amount or collateral if the defendant fails to appear in court. Legally, the defendant's absence can lead to arrest warrants and additional charges, complicating their legal situation further.
Bail Bonds and Credit Scores It's a common misconception that co-signing for a bail bond will ruin your credit. In reality, a bail bond won't affect your credit score in any way. However, bail bond companies may conduct a credit check before allowing you to get a bail bond to make sure that you're a reliable co-signer.