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If you've landed here, please know that you are in a safe place. At 24 Hour Online Bails Bonds, it is not our job to judge or criticize anyone's situation. We only have one goal: helping individuals face challenging circumstances so that they can move on with their lives. As such, we've put together this resource to provide valuable information on domestic violence charges in the State of California.

In California, domestic disputes are common. The majority of the time police are called to investigate a domestic dispute, someone will be arrested and taken to jail—even if it’s just an argument without any sort of physical contact. This prevents a lawsuit from being filed against the police department.

Though domestic disputes occur frequently, you may not fully understand or be aware of specific penalties surrounding this type of charge, and whether or not it’s possible to receive probation for a domestic violence charge.

Let’s see if we can clear up some confusion.

Domestic Violence Penalties and Probation—What to Expect

California Penal Code Section 273.5(a) makes it illegal to injure a spouse, cohabitant, or fellow parent in an act of domestic violence. Other terms associated with this offense include domestic abuse, spousal battery, corporal injury on a spouse, or spousal abuse.

Generally, the consequences of a domestic violence charge in California include jail and/or prison sentences. At a minimum, a domestic violence conviction will result in a sentence of three years of probation and the successful completion of a 52-week batterer's program.

Other consequences faced following a conviction can include the following:

  • Payment of fines and/or victim restitution
  • A restraining order or a protective order
  • Loss of custody rights
  • Loss of California gun rights
  • A permanent criminal record
  • Immigration consequences for non-citizens, such as deportation

Each domestic violence case is different, and various factors will determine the overall punishment. These factors include the severity of the crime, and if the accused already has a record. Of course, depending on the particulars, the judge can sentence only probation—instead of jail time. Though, as detailed above, the minimum amount of probation given for a domestic violence conviction will be 36 months—three years—under California Penal Code 1203.097.

It’s important to note, however, that receiving only probation is difficult. The court will conduct a full investigation to ensure there is no risk in granting just probation. This full investigation will include a risk assessment, or strenuous background check, to prove there is no history of violent behavior. Additionally, the Victim Advocate in the District Attorney's office will be asked for their opinion on probation versus jail/prison time.

If granted probation, it's a requirement to check in with the court to ensure progress is taking place, meaning chances are highly unlikely for a repeat offense. Still, probation offers more freedom than being stuck behind bars.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for domestic violence and would like to get out of jail on bail, our skilled and professional team can help you.

How to Get Out of Jail on Bail

We make the bail process as easy as possible. We require the full name of the defendant, the booking number, the charge or charges the defendant is facing, and the location of the jail. Then, we will bond the defendant out of jail. This entire process can take several hours, depending on how busy the jail is.

When you make a bail bond payment, you can do so online or over the phone—whichever is easier for you. For your convenience, we accept myriad types of payment, including the following:

  • Credit Cards
  • Debit Cards
  • Cash
  • PayPal
  • Venmo
  • Zelle
  • Bank Transfers

Additionally, we offer payment plans, military discounts, and we'll beat most advertised prices

Bail bond agencies, like 24 Hour Online Bail Bonds, are generally available for you to contact twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. After it’s been determined that a bail bond will be used to get the defendant out of jail, paperwork will need to be signed. This paperwork details the collateral used to purchase the bond, the fees involved, and who is responsible for ensuring the defendant shows up to all court proceedings. If the defendant fails to show up to his or her court proceedings, the person who took out the bail bond stands to lose their collateral and faces additional penalties.

If you are considering not using a bail bond agent for help, here are your other options:

  • Pay the court or jail cash, which you will get back fewer fees or outstanding fines due to the court once the case has been completed
  • Use a US Treasury Bond
  • Use Real Property
  • Stay in Jail

The Different Types of Bail Bonds

There are a few different types of bail bonds in California, including:

  • Cash Bond—Bail is paid for in full with cash, a certified check, credit or debit card, or a money order
  • Surety Bond—A surety bond refers to when a family or friend contacts a bail bond agency to help get a defendant out of jail via a bond
  • Property Bond—Property is pledged to the court on behalf of the defendant, much like a lien, and held until the end of the case
  • Own Recognizance—When a judge allows the defendant to be released from jail without bail
  • Federal Immigration—Federal bonds are necessary when a defendant is detained by the Immigration and Naturalization Service; these bonds have the highest bail bond fee percentage

Once you contact us for your free price quote, we can discuss in more detail the type of bond that is most appropriate for you and your case.

Contact 24 Hour Online Bail Bonds Today!

We fully understand how difficult this time can be for you and your family—you don’t have to face it alone. You can rely on us for complete discretion; we never share personal information.

If you still have questions or concerns or would like to speak to an agent about securing a bail bond today, please contact us now.