At Law Office of Michael L. Fell we find that clients often assume that if they cannot make bail they have no options. This is simply not true. The reality is that there are other options, depending on the specifics of your case. Keep reading to learn about them and then reach out to us at (949) 585-9055 for a free legal consultation if you need to speak to a criminal defense attorney.
First: Know that you do not need to make the entirety of your bail
The most important thing to know is that you may actually be able to make bail. Many assume that they have to pay the entire amount but you can likely work with a bail bondsman who will only require a 10% payment. They then pail the bail amount in its entirety. The disadvantage to working with a bondsman is that the 10% is their fee and you will not get it back, while if you were able to pay it yourself in its entirety you would get the money back when you showed up for your court appearances.
- You could be released on your own recognizance
- You may be eligible for CPAC
- You may have the option of checking into a residential treatment facility
If the judge has reason to believe that you are not likely to leave the state or country, and that you are not dangerous to the community, then you may be eligible to be released on your own recognizance. This means that all you have to do is promise the court that you will come back for your court hearings. This is often an option for low-level, non-violent offenses by people who do not have a history of criminal activity. In some cases, there are conditions along with that go along with being released on your recognizance, such as attending AA meetings for DUI cases.
Another option is CPAC, which stands for County Parole and Alternative Custody. This something that the judge may recommend. Then the sheriff’s office will review your case to determine if you qualify. If you do, then you do not have to go to jail. Instead, you can be monitored electronically by the Sheriff’s department. You will not physically be in custody but you will still be technically under arrest, which means you will be earning custody credits the entire time.
If you are being charged with something that is related to drugs and / or alcohol, and your charge is a misdemeanor charge, then it may be possible that we can get you released to a residential treatment facility. This keeps you out of jail and, if you do need help there is help there for you. If you are later arraigned for your alleged crime, then having voluntarily checked into residential treatment can be a sign in your favor.
If you have questions about the best defense for your alleged charges or how to get out of jail when you can’t pay bail then we encourage you to contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 for a consultation.