PC 187 Bail Bonds: High-Bail Specialists for Families in Crisis
A PC 187 murder charge carries some of the highest bail amounts in California — and some of the most devastating emotional consequences for the families left behind. Chad Conley has handled high-stakes murder bail cases across Southern California for over 25 years with complete discretion and genuine compassion.
What Is California Penal Code 187?
California Penal Code 187 defines murder as the unlawful killing of a human being or fetus with malice aforethought. First-degree murder involves premeditation or specific circumstances such as lying in wait, poison, or a killing during certain felonies. Second-degree murder is all other unlawful killings with malice. PC 187 is one of the most serious charges in California law, and bail — when granted at all — is among the highest in the state.
Elements of the Charge
- First-degree murder: premeditated, deliberate killing or felony murder (robbery, rape, arson, etc.)
- Second-degree murder: unlawful killing with malice but without premeditation
- Special circumstances (PC 190.2): multiple victims, killing of a peace officer, lying in wait — can result in life without parole or death penalty
- Felony murder rule: all participants in a qualifying felony can be charged with murder if someone dies during the crime
- PC 187 of a fetus: killing an unborn child is also charged under this section
Typical Bail Amounts for PC 187 Charges
| Charge / Scenario | Typical Bail |
|---|---|
| PC 187 — Second-degree murder (first offense) | $1,000,000 – $1,500,000 |
| PC 187 — First-degree murder | $1,500,000 – $2,000,000 |
| PC 187 with gang enhancement (PC 186.22) | $2,000,000+ |
| PC 187 with special circumstances (PC 190.2) | No bail |
| Multiple victims or prior violent felony conviction | No bail / judge discretion |
Murder bail is set by the judge at arraignment and is frequently denied entirely on first-degree or special circumstances charges. When bail is granted, it is almost always over $1 million.
Chad Conley charges the California-regulated 10% premium. On a $1,000,000 bail, your out-of-pocket cost is $100,000. Payment plans are available — call to discuss options.
For the Family: You Are Not Alone in This
When Chad receives a call on a PC 187 case, the person on the other end of the phone is almost never the accused. It is a mother, a father, a spouse, or a sibling who is terrified, devastated, and completely overwhelmed. These are innocent people who did nothing wrong — and they deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Chad has sat with hundreds of families through the worst moments of their lives. He listens without judgment. He explains the process clearly and honestly. He does not rush, pressure, or minimize what the family is going through. His job is to give the family the information they need to make the right decision — whatever that decision is.
The Cosigner Decision on a PC 187 Case
Cosigning a bail bond on a murder charge is one of the most serious financial and emotional commitments a person can make. The bail amounts are high, the stakes are enormous, and the decision deserves careful thought. Chad will walk you through every aspect of the agreement — your financial exposure, your rights, your options if circumstances change — before you sign a single document. There is no pressure. There is no rush. Chad will be honest with you about everything.
What Cosigning Means
- The cosigner is financially responsible for the full bail amount if the defendant fails to appear
- On a $1M+ bond, payment plans for the premium are often available — ask Chad about options
- The cosigner can surrender the defendant to the court if circumstances change
- All conversations and documents are held in strict confidence
- Chad reviews every document with the cosigner before anything is signed
Why Families Trust Chad Conley on PC 187 Cases
High-Bail Specialist
PC 187 bails are the largest in California. Chad has the experience, resources, and relationships to handle seven-figure bonds across all Southern California counties.
No Judgment — Ever
Chad does not evaluate the charges or the accused. His job is to help the family navigate the bail process with dignity.
Payment Plans Available
On high-bail cases, Chad works with families to structure the premium payment in a way that is manageable. Call to discuss options.
Complete Confidentiality
Every conversation, every document, and every detail of your case is held in strict confidence.
Available 24 Hours a Day
Arrests don't happen on a schedule. Chad is reachable around the clock — nights, weekends, and holidays.
What Happens at Arraignment on a PC 187 Charge
PC 187 defendants are typically arraigned within 48–72 hours of arrest. At arraignment, the judge reviews the charges and decides whether to grant bail, deny bail, or set bail at a specific amount. On murder charges, prosecutors almost always request remand — no bail. Whether bail is granted depends heavily on the specific facts, the defendant's criminal history, and the county. Having a bondsman ready before arraignment gives the family the best chance of moving quickly if bail is granted.
How the Bail Process Works
Call Chad — Any Time
Reach Chad at 855-BAD-CHAD (855-223-2423). He will answer your questions, explain the process, and give you an honest picture of what to expect on a PC 187 case.
Gather Basic Information
Chad needs the defendant's full name, date of birth, the jail they are held in, and the booking number if available. He can often locate the booking without a number.
Discuss Payment Options
On high-bail cases, Chad will discuss premium payment plans before any paperwork is signed. You will know exactly what you owe and when.
Review the Paperwork Together
Chad walks every cosigner through the bond agreement line by line. Nothing is signed until you fully understand what you are agreeing to.
Bond Is Posted
Once the paperwork is complete and the premium is paid, Chad posts the bond directly with the jail. Release on high-bail cases can take 8–12 hours depending on the facility.
Call Chad Conley — High-Bail Specialist, Available Now
PC 187 cases require an experienced bondsman who knows how to handle seven-figure bonds and the families behind them. Chad is available 24/7.
Call 855-BAD-CHAD NowHablamos Español — (909) 657-6030
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.