Misdemeanor charges are more serious than infractions but less severe than felonies. They are categorized based on the potential punishment. In California, being charged with a misdemeanor indicates a suspected violation of a law with a maximum sentence of one year in jail. This contrasts with felony charges, where the potential punishment exceeds one year in jail.
Types of Misdemeanor Charges in California
There are three types of misdemeanor charges in California:
Standard Misdemeanors: Punishable by up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000.
Aggravated Misdemeanors: Punishable by up to 364 days in jail (more than 6 months but less than a year) and/or a fine of up to $1,000 or more.
Wobbler Offenses: Crimes that can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances.
Common Misdemeanor Charges
The list of misdemeanor charges in California is extensive. Some examples include:
- Driving on a Suspended License – VC 14601.1(a)
- DUI – VC 23152(a)
- Public Drunkenness – 647(f)
- Domestic Violence – PC 273.5
- Reckless Driving – VC 23103(b)
- Disorderly Conduct – PC 415
- Petty Theft – PC 484 or PC 488
- Shoplifting – PC 459.5
- Soliciting Prostitution – PC 647(b)
- Probation Violations – PC 273.5
Convictions for these crimes can result in fines up to $1,000 or more, plus court costs. Bail for misdemeanor charges typically requires a deposit equivalent to the maximum expected fines, refundable upon completion of pretrial conditions.
What is Bail?
Bail is a system rooted in English Common Law, used in the U.S. since before the Revolutionary War. It allows an accused person to deposit a sum of money with the court to secure their release from jail until trial. The accused must assure the court that they will attend all related hearings and proceedings. Non-compliance with pretrial conditions results in the defendant being returned to jail.
How Much is Bail for Misdemeanors?
Bail is determined by the charges against the defendant. It can be based on the most serious charge or by adding all charges together, depending on the county. Defendants can request a bail hearing, where a judge sets the bail or releases the defendant on their Own Recognizance (OR).
Misdemeanor Bail For PC 243(e)(1) – Battery of a Spouse
Battery of a Spouse, under PC 243(e)(1), does not require severe injury. It includes any willful and unlawful use of force or violence on a spouse, cohabitant, fiancé, or someone with whom the defendant has a dating relationship. Situations like shoving someone or putting hands on a partner during a fight can result in battery charges.
What Constitutes Battery?
Simple battery, under California Penal Code 242, involves any willful and unlawful use of force or violence on someone else. Examples include pushing someone during an argument or shoving someone aside in anger. Assault charges can apply if force is attempted but not carried out.
Different Types of Battery
Simple Battery: Willful and harmful or offensive touching (PC 242).
Battery Causing Serious Bodily Injury: More severe harm (PC 243(d)).
Battery on a Police Officer: More serious punishments (PC 243(b) and 243(c)).
Sexual Battery: Unwanted touching for sexual gratification (PC 243.3).
Domestic Battery Bail Bonds
Domestic Battery, a violation of PC 243(e)(1), involves harmful or offensive touching against a partner or family member. Even minor acts like pushing during an argument can lead to charges. If arrested for Domestic Battery, contact Bail Bonds Direct for fast assistance. Call (800) 880-8380.
Misdemeanor Bail Bonds for DUI
California has strict DUI laws under VC 23152 and VC 23153. Charges include:
23152(a): Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
23152(b): Operating a vehicle with a BAC over 0.08%.
23152(e): Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs.
23152(f): Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
For DUI bail bonds in Southern California, contact Bail Bonds Direct at (800) 880-8380.
Misdemeanor Bail Bonds for DUI of Drugs – VC 23152(e)
DUI of Drugs, under VC 23152(e), involves operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs. Arrests for this charge require blood tests and other evidence like behavior and appearance. If arrested, call Bail Bonds Direct at (800) 880-8380 for prompt bail bond services.
What is DUI?
DUI in California involves operating a vehicle under the influence of substances affecting the nervous system, brain, or muscles. This includes illegal, prescription, and over-the-counter drugs. Penalties for DUI convictions often include license suspension, fines up to $1,800 for a first offense, possible jail sentences, and probation.
Misdemeanor Bail Bonds for DUI with Bodily Injury
If you can’t pay bail for a DUI charge with bodily injury, Bail Bonds Direct can help. Their licensed bail bondsmen will pay the bail on your behalf for a fee, usually 10% of the total bail. Contact Bail Bonds Direct at (800) 880-8380 for assistance.
For misdemeanor bail bonds and professional help throughout the process, call Bail Bonds Direct at (800) 880-8380.