PC 530.5 Bail Bonds — Identity Theft
Identity theft is a wobbler that can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Chad Conley posts bail 24/7 across Southern California.
What Is Penal Code 530.5?
PC 530.5 makes it a crime to willfully obtain another person's personal identifying information and use it for any unlawful purpose — including obtaining credit, goods, services, or medical information. Identity theft is a wobbler: misdemeanor for single incidents with limited financial impact; felony for organized schemes, multiple victims, or large financial losses. It is commonly charged alongside forgery (PC 470), fraud, and computer crimes.
Elements of the Charge
- You willfully obtained another person's personal identifying information
- You used that information for an unlawful purpose
- You did so without the person's consent
- Personal identifying information includes name, SSN, driver's license, account numbers, and more
Typical Bail Amounts for PC 530.5
| Charge / Scenario | Typical Bail |
|---|---|
| Misdemeanor (single incident, limited loss) | $25,000 |
| Felony (multiple victims or significant loss) | $35,000–$50,000 |
| Organized identity theft ring | $50,000–$100,000 |
| Combined with PC 470 (forgery) or fraud charges | Stacked — varies |
Bail is set by county schedule and can be modified at arraignment. The number of victims and financial loss significantly affect the charge level.
A bail bond costs 10% of the total bail. On a $35,000 bail, your cost is $3,500. Chad offers payment plans.
What the Family Needs to Know
Identity theft cases often involve extensive digital evidence and multiple charges. Getting your loved one out before arraignment gives them time to work with a defense attorney to understand the full scope of the charges and begin building a defense.
Cosigning a PC 530.5 Bond
Identity theft 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 PC 530.5, the defense may argue for misdemeanor treatment or reduced bail. Being out before this hearing gives the defendant and their attorney the best position to negotiate.
Call Chad Now — 855-BAD-CHAD