The Difference Between Misdemeanor and Felony Bail Bonds

If you or a loved one has been arrested on felony charges, it can be quite a different kettle of fish to being held on a misdemeanor.

Let’s consider the key differences between applying for a misdemeanor and a felony bond in San Luis Obispo, so you can be prepared.

Approval and Processing

When it comes to felony bail bonds, there is often a more thorough review of the circumstances. Additional approval steps are required due to the seriousness of the charges and the higher bail amounts typically associated with such cases.

Higher-risk felonies tend to have a mandatory bail hearing to determine whether bail will be granted at all, and if so, what conditions will be attached. With higher bail amounts, the bail bondsman commonly requires collateral to provide additional security, given the higher risk of the defendant failing to appear in court.

In the case of misdemeanor bail bonds, the process is usually much simpler, as misdemeanor offenses typically have predetermined bail amounts listed in the county’s bail schedule. This enables misdemeanor defendants to post bail immediately without a hearing.

Although collateral may still be requested in misdemeanor cases, the risk is significantly lower, making it less common.

Risk Assessment

In many misdemeanor cases, a bail bondsman assesses the risk as significantly lower, requiring less scrutiny of the case and fewer additional conditions. The processing of misdemeanor bail bonds is generally expedited for minor charges owing to the lower risk involved.

However, when it comes to felony bail bonds, the assessment of the risk involved is more critical due to the higher bail amounts typically associated with felony cases. Also, since felony charges carry heavier penalties, there is an increased likelihood of a defendant skipping court, which elevates the risk for the bail bondsman.

As such, in felony cases, additional assurances might be required, such as a co-signer who agrees to share the financial responsibility and monitor the conditions of the bail bond agreement.

Imposed Conditions

In the case of misdemeanors, defendants are less likely to face stringent conditions upon their release, although some conditions might still apply, such as avoiding contact with the victim.

However, in felony cases, stricter conditions on the defendant might be imposed to secure their release. These conditions can include things like regular reporting to a bail agent, electronic monitoring, travel restrictions, and mandatory check-ins.

If these conditions are not met, the court might revoke the bail entirely. To ensure that a felony defendant meets the court’s requirements, closer monitoring is generally required, which helps mitigate the risk the bail bondsman faces.

If you or a loved one is facing serious jail time, then you can apply for a felony bond in San Luis Obispo through ABC Bail Bonds. Contact us today to get the help you need.