If you or a loved one has been accused of stalking offenses, bail bonds for stalking are the only way to secure a release from jail before preparing a legal defense.
Here at Mr. Nice Guy Bail Bonds, our team of bail bonds experts can post bail bonds for stalking on behalf of defendants across the State of California. Here’s what you need to know about the legal process.
What is stalking?
In the State of California, stalking is defined by Penal Code 646.9 PC. It states that a stalker is a person who “willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly follows or willfully and maliciously harasses another person and who makes a credible threat with the intent to place that person in reasonable fear for his or her safety, or the safety of his or her immediate family”.
Stalking doesn’t have to relate to following a person or standing outside their home. Some of the more common examples include repeated threatening behaviors. They include;
- Threatening a neighbor over a disagreement, such as demanding them to remove an item from their backyard.
- Pestering someone over romantic intentions even after their rejections. This could include pestering an ex.
- Making repeated threats, such as death threats or threats of violence through the post.
Stalking can extend to online activities and interactions and could take place over a period of a few days or several years.
What are the punishments for stalking in California?
The punishment for stalking in California is determined by a judge. The maximum punishments are as follows;
- Misdemeanor - up to 12 months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
- Felony - up to 5 years in prison and a fine.
Meanwhile, stalking is included in the Three Strikes rule. So, if a person is convicted three times, they can receive a fine of up to $10,000 on top of their prison sentence. Stalking convictions may also affect a person’s gun rights or immigration rights. However, it should be noted that it can be expunged from a record once the punishment has been served.
However, bail bonds for stalking can help defendants avoid time spent behind bars between their arrest and trial date. It also offers a better opportunity to prepare a defense.
How much does it cost to post bail for stalking?
In the State of California, judges set bail based on guidelines produced by the courts. The figure is determined by the severity of the offense - misdemeanor or felony - as well as other factors, such as whether the defendant is a first-time offender.
Cash bail amounts for stalking in California are set at the following rates;
- First time misdemeanor - $20,000.
- Second time misdemeanor - $40,000.
- Third time misdemeanor - $80,000.
- Felony stalking violating a temporary restraining order - $100,000
- Felony stalking after a previous conviction - $150,000.
As confirmed by the Stalking Awareness fact sheet, stalking charges may be accompanied by accusations of other offenses. The most common enhancements are possession of a deadly weapon, violation of a court order or condition of probation/parole, victim under 16
years, or same victim as prior occasions.
Other related cases could include kidnapping (207 PC), criminal threats (422 PC), and annoying phone calls (653 PC).
How can bail bonds for stalking services help?
If the above cash bail fees are unaffordable, bail bonds are the perfect solution. Bail bonds for stalking allow the defendant to gain their freedom between now and their trial date for just 10% (or even less) of that cost - this charge is called a premium.
Mr. Nice Guy Bail Bonds will take on responsibility for the defendant’s future court appearances. In return, they (or a cosigner) will pay the premium. Aside from helping defendants save thousands of dollars, it can speed up the bail process to secure a same-day release. Not least because our experts have solid connections with all county jails in the Golden State.
We are available 24/7, which provides a very convenient solution when arrested out of bank hours. Facing accusations of stalking can be scary but this move will make a difference by allowing the defendant to restore a sense of normality and work on their defense.
Some of the reasons to choose Mr. Nice Guy Bail Bonds include but are not limited to;
- Secure a release from jail in the most affordable way,
- Save time and ensure that the bail process runs smoothie,
- Take advantage of various repayment plans,
- Complete an application online or via telephone within minutes,
- Gain a friendly service that does not require in-depth details of the case.
If nothing else, having the right team on your side will deliver added peace of mind.
Defenses for stalking cases in California
A bail bonds team only serves to secure your release from jail. When preparing a defense for stalking accusations. It will be necessary to work with a dedicated Californian attorney. Nevertheless, we do have a good understanding of the trial process.
It is up to the prosecution team to show that the defendant is guilty beyond reasonable doubt of stalking the plaintiff. Some of the most common defenses against the charges include;
- No credible threat,
- No genuine intent,
- Partaking in a constitutionally protected activity.
A plaintiff’s view of stalking may not align with the reality while accusations may have been made falsely too. Either way, preparing a defense based on challenging the laws surrounding stalking in California will be vital for gaining the right verdict in court.
Defendants have the right to a trial within 45 days for a misdemeanor. A quick release from the county jail allows more time to prepare the defense while simultaneously helping the defendant avoid any emotional, physical, financial, or reputational damage that weeks behind bars may bring.
The final word on bail bonds for stalking
Facing accusations of stalking can be worrying for a defendant and their families. However, bail bonds for stalking overcome the initial fear of spending time behind bars.
If your loved one is currently incarcerated in a Californian county jail, call our experts to arrange a bail bond. Their release could be secured within hours.
