Petty theft is generally a misdemeanor, while grand theft (PC 487) and burglary (PC 459) can be charged as felonies. First-degree, residential burglary carries a higher bail than commercial burglary, and prior convictions raise the schedule further.
What the charge means for bail
Bail follows the county schedule and the way the charge is filed. Misdemeanor petty theft sits at the lower end; grand theft and burglary climb, especially where a residence was involved or the value is high. A bilingual agent confirms the exact amount and the right rate tier before any paperwork is signed.
How we handle it
Most paperwork is completed by e-signature with no drive-in required, and a licensed Justice agent posts the surety bond at the jail in person. We keep the premium within the legal cap and offer interest-free payment plans on approved credit.
Watch the rate
California Insurance Code § 1800 caps the bail premium at 10% of the face amount of the bond — that’s the legal ceiling, not the minimum. Anything above 10% is illegal. Walk away from any bondsman who quotes above the cap, demands wired money before paperwork is signed, has no California Department of Insurance license number visible, or pressures you to decide in under a minute. A real bondsman walks the family through the math.