Battery Bail Bonds

What Constitutes Battery?

A person facing charges of battery may be wondering how they ever got into this situation. It is easier than you think to find yourself facing these types of charges. The different actions that could result in a charge of battery range from touching or pushing someone else in an “offensive way” to beating someone within an inch of their life. While it may seem ridiculous that actions with such varying outcomes could be categorized in the same way, it is still a fact that battery covers a multitude of offenses.

What is Simple Battery?

Simple battery, under California Penal Code 242, consists of any willful and unlawful use of force or violence on someone else.

Situations that could result in a battery charge include:

• Putting your hands on your girlfriend during a fight, even without any intent to harm.
• Shoving someone aside in anger.
• Lying in wait for an enemy and beating them up.

It may seem ridiculous that situations so far apart, in intent and result, could all end in charges of battery. But they can, though the degree of battery may vary. In fact, if you simply try to use force on someone but aren't able to actually put your hands on them, you could be charged with a related crime known as “assault.”

Different Types of Battery

Simple Battery

Simple battery is willfully touching someone else in a harmful or offensive manner. Simple battery is a violation of Penal Code 242.

Battery Causing Serious Injury

If the battery results in serious injury, you could be charged with “battery causing serious bodily injury,” a violation of Penal Code 243(d).

Battery on a Police or Peace Officer

Battery on a police or peace officer is a violation of Penal Code 243(b) and 243(c), which can be classified as a felony, carrying much more serious punishments and fines.

Sexual Battery

Sexual battery, a violation of Penal Code 243.3, is defined as the unwanted touching of another person’s intimate part for purposes of sexual gratification, arousal, or abuse. This can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances.

Domestic Battery

Domestic battery is a violation of Penal Code 243(e)(1). It involves willful and unlawful touching that is harmful or offensive and is committed against a spouse or former spouse, cohabitant, or the parent of the defendant's child. Even minor acts like pushing your significant other during an argument can result in a charge.

Misdemeanor Battery

Simple battery is a misdemeanor in many cases. A person charged with misdemeanor battery could face a fine of up to two thousand dollars and up to six months in jail.

Felony Battery Charges

If you commit battery against a police officer, EMT, firefighter, or certain other public servants, and they suffer any kind of injury, you could be charged with “Battery on a Peace or Police Officer.” This carries more serious consequences than a misdemeanor charge.

What's the Difference Between a Fight and Battery?

There isn't much difference between fighting and battery, except in your defense of the charges. Both parties may be charged with battery, with investigators sorting out who was at fault.

Can I Be Charged With Battery If It's Self-Defense?

California's self-defense laws allow you to use violence to protect yourself, as long as your actions are reasonable. You can still be charged with battery if an officer cannot clearly determine who was the aggressor.

What Happens if I'm Arrested For Battery?

Staying Calm

If you are arrested for battery, it’s important to stay calm. Once the police arrive, conduct yourself in a way that doesn’t escalate the situation.

• Cooperate physically with police.
• Speak calmly, if you choose to answer questions.
• Avoid speaking to or yelling at the other party.
• Conduct yourself dignifiedly, allowing officers to see your behavior as self-defense.

Miranda Rights

If you're arrested, the officer should inform you of your Miranda Rights:

• Right to remain silent: You cannot be forced to talk, except to provide your name, address, and ID.
• Anything you say can be used against you: Anything you say can be used against you in court.
• Right to an attorney: You can ask for an attorney, and if you cannot afford one, one will be appointed for you.

How Can I Get Out of Jail After Battery?

Once arrested, you will be booked and allowed up to three free phone calls. Use these calls to arrange for a battery bail bond to get out fast. Call Mr. Nice Guy Bail Bonds for prompt, professional service.

How Much is Battery Bail?

The bail amount for most crimes, including battery, is set by a bail schedule. The detention facility should inform you of your bail amount.

How Can I Get Battery Bail Bonds?

If you don’t have enough cash to pay the bail in full, contact a bail bond company like Mr. Nice Guy Bail Bonds. They will cover the bail for you, and you pay them a fee (usually 10% of the total bail amount).

Can I Bail Someone Out of Jail If They've Been Charged With Battery?

Call Mr. Nice Guy Bail Bonds. With the full name, detention location, and booking number, you can get your friend or family member out of jail fast.

Who Has the Lowest Rates on Battery Bail Bonds?

Mr. Nice Guy Bail Bonds offers bail premiums as low as 7%, the lowest rate allowed in California. No recurring fees or additional charges.