If you have been arrested in San Bernardino County, you can post bail to secure your release from jail while you wait for your court hearing. Before your release, you will attend court, where a judge will decide if you can be released before your trial. When you qualify for bail, the judge will set the bail amount based on your charges. If you cannot pay the full bail amount, you or your family should consider working with a bail bonds company that can cover the bail costs for you at a fee.
At Mr. Nice Guy Bail Bonds, we can help you secure your release from custody. We are available at any time of day or night. Contact us today for exceptional San Bernardino County bail bond services.
What is Bail?
Bail is money paid to the court to ensure offenders' release from jail and appearance in court on their scheduled court dates. San Bernardino allows defendants to post bail to secure their freedom from police custody. However, bail sums can be exceedingly costly for some offenders, making it difficult for them to pay.
What the Court Considers When Setting Bail
California Penal Code (PEN) 1275 requires judges and magistrates to consider some factors while setting, reducing, or denying bail. These include the following:
- The accused person’s release may threaten the community’s safety.
- The defendants’ “flight risk.” This term refers to offenders attempting to flee the jurisdiction—the country, county, or state—to escape being detained by authorities and missing court dates.
- The severity and nature of the accused offense—Serious offenses usually carry more hefty bail sums than misdemeanor crimes.
PEN 1275(ii) requires courts to consider various elements when determining the gravity of an offense, including:
- Whether you threatened the witnesses or victims.
- If you consumed or possess illegal drugs
- Whether the purported offense involves firearms or other dangerous weapons.
- The defendant’s past offenses—A history of bail-jumping or not showing up in court after being released on bail can make legal matters more complicated.
The Fontana Courthouse
The Fontana Courthouse is situated at the corner of Arrow Highway and Alder Avenue. It is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except on holidays. The Self-Help Center operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., also excluding holidays.
The courthouse is designed to be accessible for individuals with disabilities. If you need special assistance, you can reach out to the court in advance.
The address for Fontana Courthouse is:
Fontana District Courthouse
17780 Arrow Blvd,
Fontana, California
92335
Phone: 909-350-9322
Ways to Post Bail in San Bernardino County
There are three main ways to post bail:
Property Bond
This option uses real estate as collateral for the bail, with a professional appraiser determining the property’s value. While property bonds can cover larger amounts of bail, they require more legal steps for the court to approve the bail money. These legal steps may include verifying the property’s value and ownership status. Choosing this method may result in a longer stay in custody.
Cash Bail
This option involves the defendant or someone close to them paying the full bail amount in cash. If the defendant attends all court hearings and does not violate their bail conditions, the court refunds the money minus some administrative court fees.
Bail Bond or Surety Bond
Bail bonds are the most common way to post bail. Here, a San Bernardino County bail bondsman agrees to pay the full bail amount after the defendant or a cosigner pays the bondsman a fee, usually a percentage of the bail amount.
This option can help those who cannot afford to pay the full bail. However, not following court rules can lead to bail forfeiture, and if the defendant misses a court date, the bondsman will seek the full bail amount from the cosigner.
The Benefits of Hiring a San Bernardino County Bail Bonds Service
The bail process can be complicated, but a bail bondsman can simplify it for you. Here are some benefits of working with a professional San Bernardino County bail bonds service:
Expert Assistance
A bail bondsman has the skills and knowledge to help you through the bail process. They will guide you at every step and help you understand how the bail process works. Their experience ensures you get prompt assistance and trustworthy information.
Reliable and Professional Service
A reliable bail bondsman is honest and ethical, prioritizes good communication, and charges no hidden fees.
Quick Access to Resources
After securing your release on bail, you might need help from witnesses, lawyers, or evidence. A professional San Bernardino County bail bondsman can quickly link you to these resources, helping you create a solid defense.
Court Date Reminders
Missing court dates can cause more issues. A reliable San Bernardino County bail bonds service will remind you of your court dates and assist you in meeting bail conditions.
Confidentiality Assurance
Working with a bail bondsman reduces your direct contact with the judicial system. A bail bondsman serves as a buffer between the defendant and the court, allowing you to keep your information confidential.
Quick Release
When you contact a bondsman, they will act quickly to get you released. Experienced bondsmen have strong connections with local court staff and police, which can help speed up the process. Getting out of police custody quickly is crucial, especially in urgent situations.
Readily Available At All Times
An arrest might take place late at night or on holidays. Bail bondsmen are available 24/7, providing essential support during emergencies.
Financial Assistance
Paying the full bail amount can strain your finances. A bail bondsman only asks for a small percentage of the total bail, making it more manageable for you. This financial support allows you to concentrate on other important issues, such as preparing for your court hearing.
Find a San Bernardino Bail Bonds Service Near Me
If you are facing criminal charges, California law considers you innocent until found guilty. The court can allow you to secure your release while awaiting your trial, but you may need to pay bail. If you cannot afford to pay cash bail, a San Bernardino County bail bonds service can assist you.
At Mr. Nice Guy Bail Bonds, we understand how a criminal charge can affect your life. We have helped many individuals secure their release from jail and can assist you as you navigate your case at the Fontana Courthouse. Contact us today at 844-400-2245 to speak with one of our bail bondsmen.
