Shoplifting is often thought of as a minor offense. Under California law, Penal Code 459.5 generally classifies shoplifting as a misdemeanor due to Proposition 47. However, there are important exceptions that can significantly change the situation. In certain circumstances, felony bail may still be required — even when the underlying charge is labeled as shoplifting.
If you or a loved one has been arrested in Nevada City for Theft or Shoplifting, understanding how the law works — and how the bail bond process functions — is critical.
California Penal Code 459.5 defines Shoplifting as entering a commercial establishment during regular business hours with the intent to commit Theft where the value of the property taken or intended to be taken does not exceed $950.
After Proposition 47 passed in 2014, most Shoplifting offenses under $950 became misdemeanors. The goal was to reduce prison overcrowding and focus felony prosecution on more serious crimes.
However, the law includes important exceptions.
Even though 459.5 is normally a misdemeanor, felony bail may be required if:
In these cases, the court may treat the matter more severely, and felony-level bail can apply.
This means that although the Theft amount may be under $950, the person’s criminal history can significantly impact the bail amount and release process.
A typical Shoplifting arrest in Nevada City may occur after:
Once booked, bail is set according to the county bail schedule or determined by a judge.
Even in cases involving misdemeanor Shoplifting, the bail amount can be substantial if aggravating factors are present.
The bail amount depends on several factors:
For standard misdemeanor Shoplifting, bail might be relatively low. However, when felony bail is triggered, the bail amount can rise significantly — sometimes into tens of thousands of dollars.
For many families, paying full bail upfront is not realistic. This is where a bail bond becomes essential.
A bail bond allows a defendant to be released from custody without paying the full bail amount to the court.
Instead, a Bail Bondsman or Bail agent posts the full bail on behalf of the defendant. In exchange, the family typically pays a percentage of the bail amount — often 10%.
For example:
This payment is the service fee for the bailbond and is generally non-refundable.
Searching online for “Bailbonds near me” during a stressful arrest situation can bring up many options. However, choosing an experienced and reputable agency is extremely important.
Even though Shoplifting may seem minor, time in custody can cause serious disruption:
Securing a bail bond quickly allows the defendant to:
The sooner release is secured, the better the outcome tends to be.
Under Proposition 47, most Shoplifting under $950 is a misdemeanor. However, when felony bail is required due to prior convictions or registration requirements, the case can feel much more serious.
Even if the formal charge remains 459.5, the court may impose:
This is why working with an experienced Bail agent is so important.
Once released through a bail bond, the defendant must:
Failure to appear in court can result in forfeiture of the bond and issuance of a warrant.
The bailbond agreement is a serious financial commitment, and compliance is critical.
Prior convictions play a major role in determining how Shoplifting cases are handled.
If someone has:
The court may treat the case more severely.
This can affect:
Even though Shoplifting may sound minor, criminal history can significantly elevate consequences.
Every case is unique, but potential defenses may involve:
An arrest does not mean guilt. The legal system requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
Securing release through a bail bond allows the defendant time to work closely with legal counsel.
Time matters.
The longer someone remains in custody:
Contacting a professional Bail agent immediately after an arrest in Nevada City can speed up release and restore stability.
When facing a Shoplifting arrest — especially one requiring felony bail — experience, professionalism, and discretion matter.
Bail House Bail Bonds has built a reputation for:
Unlike agencies that treat clients like transactions, Bail House bail Bonds understands that every arrest affects families, careers, and futures.
Their team of experienced Bail Bondsman professionals works quickly to post bailbond paperwork accurately and efficiently, helping clients return home as soon as possible.
When families search “Bailbonds near me,” they need reliability, honesty, and speed — and that is exactly what Bail House bail Bonds delivers.
No. While most Shoplifting under $950 is a misdemeanor, felony bail may be required if the defendant has certain prior convictions or registration requirements.
It varies by county and criminal history. Misdemeanor bail may be lower, but felony-level bail can reach tens of thousands of dollars.
Typically about 10% of the total bail amount, paid to the Bail Bondsman as a service fee.
Release timing depends on jail processing, but many individuals are released within hours after the bail bond is posted.
The court may issue a warrant, and the bailbond can be forfeited.
Yes. Prior serious or violent felonies can trigger felony bail requirements.
Yes. Acting quickly can reduce time in custody and help stabilize the situation for both the defendant and their family.
Penal Code 459.5 Shoplifting is typically a misdemeanor under Proposition 47. However, felony bail may still apply when a defendant has certain prior convictions or registration requirements.
Understanding how bail works — and acting quickly after an arrest — can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case.
If you or a loved one has been arrested for Theft or Shoplifting in Nevada City, contacting a knowledgeable Bail agent immediately can help secure release and allow time to prepare a defense.
Even in cases that seem minor, the legal system moves quickly. Having the right support makes all the difference.