PC 243(e)(1) Bail Bonds — Domestic Battery
Domestic battery is one of the most common misdemeanor arrests in Southern California. Chad Conley posts bail 24/7 and understands the urgency of getting your loved one home.
What Is Penal Code 243(e)(1)?
PC 243(e)(1) is domestic battery — willful and unlawful use of force or violence against an intimate partner, spouse, cohabitant, co-parent, or dating partner. Unlike PC 273.5 (corporal injury causing visible injury), domestic battery does not require visible injury. It is typically charged as a misdemeanor, but prior convictions or aggravating circumstances can elevate it. Emergency protective orders are almost always issued at arrest, which affects where the defendant can go after release.
Elements of the Charge
- You willfully touched another person in a harmful or offensive manner
- The person was your intimate partner, spouse, cohabitant, co-parent, or dating partner
- The touching was not in lawful self-defense
- No visible injury is required — unwanted physical contact is sufficient
Typical Bail Amounts for PC 243(e)(1)
| Charge / Scenario | Typical Bail |
|---|---|
| First offense misdemeanor | $10,000 |
| Prior domestic violence history | $15,000–$20,000 |
| Violation of existing protective order | $20,000+ |
| Combined with PC 273.5 (corporal injury) | $25,000–$50,000 |
Bail is set by county schedule. Emergency protective orders are typically issued at arrest and affect release conditions.
Most of Chad's bonds are written at 6%, 7% or 8%. Smaller bonds, under $20,000, can be up to 10% because of posting fees. On a $10,000 bail, your cost is $1,000. Chad offers payment plans.
What the Family Needs to Know
Domestic battery arrests are emotionally charged and move quickly. An emergency protective order is almost always issued at the scene, which means the defendant cannot return home until it is modified by a judge. Getting out on bail quickly gives the defendant time to work with an attorney to address the protective order and prepare for arraignment.
Cosigning a PC 243(e)(1) Bond
Domestic battery bail is generally lower than other charges, making it more accessible. Here's what cosigning means:
What Cosigning Means
- You guarantee the defendant appears at all court dates
- If they fail to appear, you are responsible for the full bail amount
- The defendant must comply with any protective order conditions after release
- The premium is non-refundable once the defendant is released
Why Families Choose Chad Conley
24/7 Availability
Domestic arrests happen at all hours. Chad answers his phone nights, weekends, and holidays.
Knows the Courts
Chad works LA, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties and understands how domestic cases are processed.
Affordable Premiums
Lower bail means a lower premium. Chad also offers payment plans for families who need flexibility.
Discreet and Respectful
Domestic situations are sensitive. Chad handles every case with discretion and without judgment.
What Happens at Arraignment
At arraignment, the judge will review the protective order and bail conditions. The defense can request modification of the protective order to allow the defendant to return home. Being out on bail before arraignment gives the defendant and their attorney the best position to negotiate these conditions.
Call Chad Now — 855-BAD-CHADRelated Resources
Not legal advice. The information on this page is based on Chad Conley's 15+ years as a licensed bail bondsman, plus additional experience as an investigator and bounty hunter and is intended to help families understand the general process. It is not legal advice, and Chad Conley is not an attorney. Every case is different. If you have legal questions about your specific situation, please consult a licensed attorney.