WIC 10980 Bail Bonds — Welfare Fraud
Welfare fraud is a wobbler that can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the amount involved. Chad Conley posts bail 24/7 across Southern California.
What Is Welfare & Institutions Code 10980?
WIC 10980 makes it a crime to obtain public assistance benefits — including CalWORKs, CalFresh (food stamps), Medi-Cal, or General Relief — through fraud, misrepresentation, or concealment of material facts. It is a wobbler: misdemeanor for smaller amounts; felony for fraud exceeding $950 or involving organized schemes. Welfare fraud cases are investigated by county district attorney offices and the California Department of Social Services, and can involve multiple counts for each fraudulent application or benefit period.
Elements of the Charge
- You obtained, attempted to obtain, or aided another in obtaining public assistance benefits
- You did so through fraud, misrepresentation, or concealment of material facts
- The benefits included CalWORKs, CalFresh, Medi-Cal, General Relief, or other public assistance
- Amounts over $950 or organized schemes are charged as felonies
Typical Bail Amounts for WIC 10980
| Charge / Scenario | Typical Bail |
|---|---|
| Misdemeanor (under $950, first offense) | $15,000 |
| Felony (over $950 or prior record) | $25,000–$50,000 |
| Large-scale organized fraud scheme | $50,000+ |
| Multiple counts across benefit periods | Stacked — varies |
Bail is set by county schedule and can be modified at arraignment. The total amount of fraudulent benefits and criminal history affect the charge level.
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
Welfare fraud cases often involve complex paper trails and multiple benefit periods. 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 explore options for restitution or reduced charges.
Cosigning a WIC 10980 Bond
Welfare 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 WIC 10980, the defense may argue for misdemeanor treatment or explore restitution options. Being out before arraignment gives the defendant and their attorney the best position to negotiate.
Call Chad Now — 855-BAD-CHADRelated Resource
Welfare fraud charges involving children often intersect with CPS investigations and family court custody proceedings. If CPS is involved in your case, bail is only the beginning.