Insurance Code 1871.4 — Workers' Compensation Fraud

IC 1871.4 Bail Bonds — Workers' Comp Fraud

Workers' compensation fraud is a felony investigated by the California Department of Insurance and prosecuted by dedicated DA units. Chad Conley posts bail 24/7.

Typical Bail:$25,000 – $50,000

What Is Insurance Code 1871.4?

IC 1871.4 makes it a felony to make a knowingly false or fraudulent material statement or representation for the purpose of obtaining or denying workers' compensation benefits. This includes exaggerating injuries, claiming injuries that didn't happen at work, continuing to collect benefits while working, or employers misclassifying employees to reduce premiums. The California Department of Insurance investigates these cases, often with surveillance footage and medical record analysis. IC 1871.4 is commonly charged alongside PC 487 (grand theft) for the amount of fraudulently obtained benefits.

Elements of the Charge

  • You made a knowingly false or fraudulent material statement or representation
  • The statement was made for the purpose of obtaining or denying workers' compensation benefits
  • You knew the statement was false at the time you made it
  • The false statement was material — it could affect the outcome of the claim

Typical Bail Amounts for IC 1871.4

Charge / ScenarioTypical Bail
Single fraudulent claim, first offense$25,000
Extended fraud over multiple benefit periods$35,000–$50,000
Employer premium fraud scheme$50,000+
Combined with PC 487 (grand theft)Stacked — varies

Bail is set by county schedule and can be modified at arraignment. The total amount of fraudulent benefits and the duration of the scheme affect bail.

A bail bond costs 10% of the total bail. On a $25,000 bail, your cost is $2,500. Chad offers payment plans.

What the Family Needs to Know

Workers' comp fraud cases often involve months of investigation before arrest. Getting your loved one out before arraignment gives them time to work with a defense attorney to review the surveillance evidence, medical records, and benefit payment history before the case moves forward.

Cosigning an IC 1871.4 Bond

Workers' comp fraud bail is generally moderate. Here's what cosigning means:

What Cosigning Means

  • You guarantee the defendant appears at all court dates
  • If they fail to appear, you are responsible for the full bail amount
  • Collateral may be required on larger bail amounts
  • The 10% premium is non-refundable once the defendant is released

Why Families Choose Chad Conley

24/7 Availability

Chad answers his phone nights, weekends, and holidays.

Four-County Coverage

Chad posts bail in LA, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties.

Affordable Premiums

Chad offers payment plans for families who need flexibility.

No Judgment

Chad's job is to get your loved one home — not to evaluate the charges.

What Happens at Arraignment

At arraignment, the judge reviews the charges and bail. For IC 1871.4, the defense may argue for reduced bail and explore restitution options. Being out before arraignment gives the defendant and their attorney the best position to negotiate.

Call Chad Now — 855-BAD-CHAD

Not legal advice. The information on this page is based on Chad Conley's 15+ years as a licensed bail bondsman, plus additional experience as an investigator and bounty hunter, and is intended to help families understand the general process. It is not legal advice, and Chad Conley is not an attorney. Every case is different. If you have legal questions about your specific situation, please consult a licensed attorney.