California courthouse

How Bail Works

Understanding the bail process can feel overwhelming — especially in a crisis. We'll walk you through every step so you know exactly what to expect.

What Is Bail?

When someone is arrested, a judge sets a bail amount — a sum of money that must be paid to the court to secure the person's release while they await trial. Bail acts as a guarantee that the defendant will appear at all scheduled court dates.

Most families cannot afford to pay the full bail amount out of pocket. That's where a licensed bail bondsman like Eric Barraza comes in. We pay the court on your behalf in exchange for a small, state-regulated premium — typically 10% of the total bail amount.

The Bail Process, Step by Step

01

Call Eric Barraza Bail Bonds

Call us at 1-800-917-8099 any time — day or night. We'll gather basic information about your loved one: their full name, the jail they're being held at, and the charges if known.

02

We Look Up the Booking

We immediately contact the jail to confirm the booking details, the bail amount set by the court, and the expected release timeline.

03

Complete the Paperwork

We walk you through the bail bond agreement. You'll pay the premium (typically 10% of the bail amount) and sign the indemnity agreement. We can handle paperwork by phone, email, or in person.

04

We Post the Bond

Once the paperwork is complete and the premium is received, we post the bail bond with the jail. This authorizes the jail to begin the release process.

05

Your Loved One Is Released

Release times vary by jail and how busy they are — typically 2 to 8 hours after the bond is posted. We'll keep you updated throughout the process.

06

Attend All Court Dates

The defendant must appear at every scheduled court date. Missing a court date can result in the bail being forfeited and a warrant being issued for re-arrest.

What Does a Bail Bond Cost?

In California, the bail bond premium is set by law at 10% of the total bail amount. This fee is non-refundable — it is the cost of the service, not a deposit.

For example, if bail is set at $50,000, the premium would be $5,000. We work with families to find flexible payment arrangements when needed.

The 10% premium is regulated by the California Department of Insurance. No licensed bail agent can legally charge more or less.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get someone out of jail?
After the bond is posted, release typically takes 2 to 8 hours depending on the jail's workload. Some facilities are faster; others — particularly large county jails — may take longer. We'll give you a realistic estimate based on the specific facility.
What information do I need to call you?
The more you know, the faster we can move — but don't wait to gather everything. At minimum, we need the full name of the person arrested and the jail or detention facility they're being held at. Charges and bail amount are helpful but we can look those up.
What happens if the defendant misses a court date?
If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bail bond is forfeited and a bench warrant is issued. We have a short window to locate the defendant and bring them back to court before the full bail amount is owed. It's critical that all court dates are attended.
Is the 10% premium refundable?
No. The premium is the fee for the bail bond service and is earned once the defendant is released. It is not a deposit and is not refunded if the case is dismissed or the defendant is found not guilty.
Do you serve all of California?
Yes. We are licensed to write bail bonds in all 58 California counties. No matter where your loved one is being held, we can help.
Do you offer payment plans?
We understand that coming up with even 10% of a large bail amount can be difficult. We work with families on a case-by-case basis to find arrangements that work. Call us to discuss your situation.

Ready to Get Your Loved One Home?

We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call now and we'll start working immediately.

Serving families across all of California with compassion, speed, and integrity — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Hablamos Español

Contact Us

1-818-949-6919
6360 Van Nuys Blvd Suite 163
Van Nuys, CA 91401
Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
© 2026 Eric Barraza Bail Bonds. All rights reserved.California Licensed Bail Agent | License #1551661