California crimes and bail bonds
California crimes and bail bonds
Felonies in California are crimes punishable by death, incarceration in state prison, or incarceration in county jail. Need help? Call Dan’s Bail Bonds (310) 275-2624
Other less-serious offenses are considered misdemeanors in California, which are generally punishable by fines and/or up to 364 days in county jail, or infractions, which result only in fines. (Cal. Penal Code §§ 17, 18.5 (2019).). Los Angeles Bail Bonds
How do courts decide the sentence for a felony?
For most felonies in California, the law sets out three determinate (or fixed) sentences that are specific to that crime presently.
The judge must use one of those fixed periods of imprisonment unless the law allows an alternative, such as a fine, probation, or mandatory supervision. When deciding among the possible terms, the judge may consider evidence of mitigating or aggravating circumstances (including victim statements). Additionally, some defendants will have to serve additional time for their crimes in addition to the base sentence.
In a few circumstances, such as a murder conviction, California law does allow for “indeterminate” sentences (such as 25 years to life). (Cal. Penal §§ 18, 667, 1170.)
County Jail or State Prison: “Realignment” in California. Los Angeles Bail Bonds
California felons usually serve their sentences in county jails, unless they have been convicted of a serious felony, violent felony, or sex offense. Examples of serious or violent felonies include murder, voluntary manslaughter, rape, robbery, carjacking, and any felony where the defendant used a gun. (Cal. Penal Code § 1170 (2019).)