Even within California, Los Angeles County and Orange County show differences in their bail policies.

Los Angeles County: Elimination of Cash Bail

As of October 1, 2023, Los Angeles County has implemented the 'Pre-Arraignment Release Protocols (PARP)', eliminating cash bail for most misdemeanors and non-violent felonies. This policy does not require cash bail during the period before the defendant's first court appearance after arrest, instead determining release based on a risk assessment. 

This change is seen as a measure to improve an unfair system where only wealthy defendants can pay bail for release. Initial data indicates that this policy has not increased recidivism or court appearance rates.

Orange County: Maintaining Cash Bail

Orange County still maintains a cash bail system. According to the 2025 uniform bail schedule, set bail amounts apply to most crimes, varying based on the type of crime and the defendant's criminal history.

However, since 2020, some reforms have been made to relax bail standards for misdemeanors, and penalties for first-time offenders regarding court appearances have been eased.

While Los Angeles County has abolished cash bail and introduced a risk assessment-based release system, Orange County continues to uphold the traditional cash bail system. Thus, the bail policies in the two counties are not the same, and there are significant differences depending on the region.

In areas where bail is implemented, if the bail in the United States is $20,000:

If paid in full in cash (Cash Bail)
If I pay $20,000 in cash bail directly to the court,

• If I attend court faithfully without missing

• I will receive the full amount back after the trial. (However, some administrative fees may be deducted.)

However, if I miss the trial or flee, the money will be forfeited.

Payment through a Surety Bond
If I do not have cash, I can go through a bail bondsman

• paying only 10% of the total bail (in this case, $2,000)

• and the company guarantees the remaining amount.

However, this 10% is non-refundable as a fee.

California attempted to abolish cash bail in 2018, but it was rejected in a 2020 referendum, preventing complete abolition. However, some areas, including Los Angeles County, have implemented policies that do not require cash bail for misdemeanors or non-violent crimes. Many states, including Texas, still maintain cash bail systems. Notably, Harris County (including Houston) has abolished cash bail for misdemeanors, but cash bail is still required for felonies or violent crimes.