California Bail Bonds for Corporal Injury Charges

Understanding Corporal Injury Charges in California

When people hear the term “corporal injury,” they might think of corporal punishment—a practice that was common in schools not too long ago. However, corporal injury in California law has nothing to do with physical punishment. Instead, it refers to a crime where someone inflicts physical harm on their intimate partner.

What is Corporal Injury in California?

In California, corporal injury—specifically "corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant"—is defined as willfully inflicting a physical injury that causes a "traumatic condition" on an intimate partner. To understand this better, let’s clarify a few key terms.

Who Qualifies as an Intimate Partner?

An intimate partner includes:

• A spouse or former spouse
• A cohabitant or former cohabitant (someone you live or lived with)
• A boyfriend or girlfriend (including same-sex partners)
• A fiancé or former fiancé
• The parent of your child

In short, an intimate partner is anyone you've had a romantic or intimate relationship with.

What is Considered a “Physical Injury”?

A physical injury refers to any injury that leaves a mark, such as bruises, cuts, or abrasions. Even minor injuries that leave a visible mark can lead to a charge of corporal injury.

What is a Violation of PC 273.5?

Penal Code 273.5 makes it a felony for anyone to willfully inflict corporal injury resulting in a traumatic condition on their intimate partner. The penalties can include imprisonment in state prison for two, three, or four years, or up to one year in county jail, plus a fine of up to $6,000.

Other terms for the crimes defined in PC 273.5 include:

• Domestic violence
• Domestic abuse
• Spousal abuse

Examples of Corporal Injury

Even seemingly small physical altercations can lead to charges of corporal injury. Here are some examples:

• A woman scratches her boyfriend’s face, leaving visible marks.
• A man grabs his wife’s arm hard enough to leave a bruise.
• A same-sex couple gets into a physical fight, with both parties hitting each other.

If any injury leaves a mark, even if it's a small one, it can lead to a charge of corporal injury.

Is Corporal Injury a Felony?

Corporal injury can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the specifics of the case, including the defendant’s criminal history and the severity of the injury. The requirement for a physical injury sets corporal injury apart from domestic battery charges under Penal Code 243(e)(1), which are generally considered less serious.

What Are the Punishments for Corporal Injury?

• Misdemeanor corporal injury can lead to up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $6,000.
• Felony corporal injury can result in up to four years in state prison.

Can I be Arrested for Corporal Injury?

Yes, if you are involved in a domestic dispute and the other person sustains any injury—even a minor one—you could be arrested for corporal injury. California takes domestic violence charges very seriously, and law enforcement may arrest individuals even if the victim no longer wants to pursue charges.

How Should I Act If Arrested for Corporal Injury?

If you are arrested for corporal injury:

• Cooperate with the police without resisting.
• Keep your hands visible and avoid sudden movements.
• Remain calm and avoid arguing with the officers or the other party involved in the dispute.
• Do not yell at anyone, including police officers, the victim, or bystanders.

Remaining calm and respectful can help you avoid additional charges and put you in a better position for your defense.

How Long Will I Be in Jail for Corporal Injury?

After being arrested for corporal injury, you'll be booked and charged at a detention facility. This process can take several hours. You’ll be allowed to make up to three free phone calls—use one of them to contact OnCall Bail Bonds at (844) 400-2245 to get out of jail fast.

Can I Get Bail for Corporal Injury?

Once you are booked, the authorities at the detention facility will determine your bail amount based on the charges. Bail ensures you will show up for court hearings and trials.

How Much is Corporal Injury Bail?

Bail schedules are often posted at detention facilities, so you can find out the bail amount quickly. If you’re unsure or need assistance, OnCall Bail Bonds can help you determine the amount and secure your release.

What Are Corporal Injury Bail Bonds?

If the bail amount is too high for you to pay upfront, OnCall Bail Bonds can post bail on your behalf. Bail bonds typically cost 10% of the total bail amount. This allows you to get out of jail for a fraction of the cost.

For fast, professional bail bond services in Southern California, call OnCall Bail Bonds at (844) 400-2245.

How Can I Get Corporal Injury Bail Bonds?

If you don’t know the location of your incarcerated loved one, OnCall Bail Bonds can help by using inmate searches. Call (844) 400-2245 with the person’s name, birthdate, booking number, and location for fast assistance.

OnCall Bail Bonds’ Commitment to You

OnCall Bail Bonds offers the best bail rates in California, starting as low as 7%. Our team of licensed professionals works quickly to get you or your loved one out of jail, and we offer flexible payment plans. We provide fast, confidential service with no recurring charges or hidden fees.