When someone is arrested for a serious sex crime involving a minor, the legal process can feel overwhelming and frightening for everyone involved. One of the most serious charges under California law is Penal Code 288, which addresses a lewd act on a child. This felony offense carries severe penalties, significant bail amounts, and long-term consequences.
If you or a loved one is facing an arrest under this statute in Roseville California or the surrounding areas, understanding how the law works — and how bail bonds function — is critical.
California Penal Code 288 makes it a felony to commit a lewd or lascivious act upon a child under the age of 14 with the intent of arousing, appealing to, or gratifying sexual desires. It is classified as a serious sex crime and is prosecuted aggressively.
The law is designed to protect minors from sexual assault and exploitation. Because the alleged victim is a child, courts treat these cases with heightened scrutiny and impose strict penalties upon conviction.
It is important to remember that an arrest is not the same as a conviction. Every person accused of a crime has the constitutional right to due process, legal representation, and the presumption of innocence.
A conviction under PC 288 can result in:
In addition to criminal penalties, the social consequences of being charged with a sex crime can be devastating. Even an accusation can impact employment, housing, and family relationships.
Because of the severity of the charge, courts typically set a high bail amount.
Bail is determined based on county bail schedules and judicial discretion. In cases involving sexual assault of a minor, the bail amount is usually substantial.
Factors that may influence bail include:
In many California counties, bail for a violation of Penal Code 288 can range from tens of thousands to several hundred thousand dollars. In aggravated cases, it may exceed $1 million.
For most families, paying full bail out of pocket is unrealistic. This is where a bail bond becomes essential.
A bailbond allows a defendant to be released from custody while awaiting court proceedings without paying the full bail amount upfront.
Instead of paying the entire bail amount, a family typically pays a percentage (commonly 10%) to a licensed bail bondsman or bail agent. The bail bondsman then posts the full bond with the court.
For example:
The fee paid to the bail agent is generally non-refundable, as it is the cost of the service provided.
Being released after an arrest for a felony sex crime allows the accused to:
Even though the charge is serious, the legal system still provides an opportunity for the accused to fight the allegations in court.
In PC 288 cases, release conditions are often strict. Courts may impose:
Violating these conditions can result in revocation of bail and immediate re-arrest.
A professional bail bondsman serves as a financial guarantor to the court. The bail agent ensures that the defendant appears at all scheduled court dates.
Responsibilities of the defendant include:
If a defendant fails to appear, the bond can be forfeited, and additional legal consequences may follow.
When dealing with an arrest for a sex crime, confidentiality, professionalism, and experience are critical. These cases are highly sensitive and emotionally charged.
In Roseville California and surrounding communities, families often turn to experienced agencies like Bail House Bail Bonds for discreet and knowledgeable assistance.
Choosing the right bail agent can make a significant difference during an already stressful time.
PC 288 cases frequently involve:
Because the alleged victim is a child, prosecutors often rely heavily on testimonial evidence. Defense attorneys may examine inconsistencies, motive, context, and constitutional issues.
These are not simple cases. They require skilled legal defense and responsible compliance with bail conditions.
An arrest for a lewd act on a child accusation can cause:
It is important for families to remain calm, avoid discussing the case publicly, and work closely with both legal counsel and the bail bondsman.
Remember: accusations do not equal guilt.
If someone is arrested in Roseville California for a violation of Penal Code 288:
Timing is critical. The sooner a bail bond is secured, the sooner the individual can begin working on their defense.
When dealing with a serious sex crime allegation, experience and discretion matter. Bail House Bail Bonds has built a strong reputation for:
Unlike some agencies that treat clients like transactions, Bail House Bail Bonds understands the emotional and legal gravity of felony cases. Their bail bondsman team prioritizes professionalism, transparency, and respectful service.
They work efficiently to secure release while ensuring clients understand their responsibilities under the bailbond agreement.
Bail varies by county and circumstances but often ranges from $100,000 to $1,000,000 or more depending on aggravating factors.
Yes, lewd act on a child under 14 is generally charged as a felony in California.
It is extremely rare due to the seriousness of the alleged sex crime.
Typically about 10% of the total bail amount. This fee is paid to the bail bondsman and is generally non-refundable.
The bail bond may be forfeited, a warrant may be issued, and additional charges can be filed.
Yes. Courts often impose strict conditions such as no contact with minors or the alleged victim.
In many cases, once paperwork and payment are completed, release can occur within a few hours depending on jail processing times.
A charge under Penal Code 288 for a lewd act on a child is one of the most serious felony allegations a person can face. The legal system treats these sex crime accusations with gravity, and bail amounts reflect that seriousness.
If a loved one has been arrested, acting quickly to secure a bail bond can provide stability and time to prepare a defense. Working with an experienced bail agent ensures that the release process is handled properly and respectfully.
Facing a sexual assault accusation is life-changing — but understanding the bail process can help families regain some control during a chaotic moment.