Arson Bail Bonds
Arson charges in California range from structure fires to wildfires to arson with great bodily injury. Bail amounts vary significantly based on what burned and whether anyone was hurt. Chad Conley handles arson bonds across all four Southern California counties.
What Is PC 451 — Arson?
PC 451 is California's arson statute. The charge level depends on what was burned and whether anyone was injured. PC 451(a) — arson causing great bodily injury — carries bail of $100,000. PC 451(b) — arson of an inhabited structure or vehicle — carries $75,000. PC 451(c) — arson of a structure or forest land — carries $50,000. Arson of personal property (PC 451(d)) is typically a misdemeanor with lower bail. In wildfire-prone Southern California, arson charges are taken extremely seriously by prosecutors and judges.
Bail by County — Southern California
| County | Typical Bail | Main Jail |
|---|---|---|
| San Bernardino County | $50,000 – $100,000 | West Valley Detention Center / Central Detention Center |
| Riverside County | $50,000 – $100,000 | Robert Presley Detention Center / Southwest Detention Center |
| Los Angeles County | $50,000 – $100,000 | Twin Towers / Men's Central Jail |
| Orange County | $50,000 – $100,000 | OC Main Jail / Theo Lacy |
What Does the Bond Cost?
At $50,000 bail, the bond premium is $5,000. At $100,000, it is $10,000. Chad charges 8% for military, first responders, and union members. Payment plans are available.
Why Families Call Chad Conley
Over 20 years posting bonds across all four Southern California counties
Available 24/7 — including nights, weekends, and holidays
Works directly with families — no call centers
Understands how arson charges escalate based on damage and injury
Fast posting — typically out within hours of bond signing
Frequently Asked Questions
Can bail be raised above the schedule for arson?
Yes. If the fire caused significant property damage, injured multiple people, or is connected to insurance fraud, a judge may raise bail significantly above the schedule amount at arraignment.
Is arson a strike offense in California?
PC 451(a) and 451(b) are serious felonies and count as strikes under California's Three Strikes Law. This can affect bail decisions and sentencing.
What if the arson was connected to a wildfire?
Wildfire arson is treated with extreme seriousness in California. Bail can be set much higher than the standard schedule, and prosecutors may seek no-bail holds in severe cases.
Need to Post a Bond Right Now?
Chad Conley is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call now and he will walk you through exactly what it costs and how fast he can get your loved one out.