PC 288 Bail Bonds: Confidential, Dignified, Available Now
A PC 288 arrest is one of the most emotionally charged situations a family will ever face. Chad Conley provides experienced, non-judgmental bail bond service — for the accused and for the family members who love them.
What Is California Penal Code 288?
California Penal Code 288 makes it a felony to commit any lewd or lascivious act upon a child under 14 years of age with the intent to arouse, appeal to, or gratify the sexual desires of either party. Charges under PC 288 carry some of the highest bail amounts in the California bail schedule — and some of the most complex emotional dynamics for every family member involved.
Elements of the Charge
- The defendant touched a child under 14 (or under 16 in some subsections)
- The touching was on the child's body or the defendant's body
- The act was done with the intent to arouse or gratify sexual desires
- PC 288(b) adds force, violence, duress, or menace as aggravating factors
- PC 288(c) covers minors aged 14–15 when the defendant is 10+ years older
Typical Bail Amounts for PC 288 Charges
| Charge / Scenario | 2026 County Bail Schedules |
|---|---|
| PC 288(a) — Lewd act, child under 14 | $100,000 (Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and San Diego) |
| PC 288(b)(1) — Lewd act with force or duress | $100,000 (Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino); $250,000 (San Diego) |
| PC 288(c) — Minor aged 14–15, defendant 10+ years older | Varies by county. Call for your county's amount. |
| PC 288.5 — Continuous sexual abuse of a child | $350,000 (Los Angeles); $250,000 (San Bernardino and San Diego) |
| One Strike law (PC 667.61) added | Adds $1,000,000 (Los Angeles and San Bernardino); adds $500,000 (San Diego) |
| Multiple counts or other enhancements | Bail adds up count by count. Can reach $1,000,000+ or be denied by the judge. |
Bail amounts are set by county bail schedules and may be increased or denied at arraignment. A judge can raise, lower, or deny bail based on the specific facts of the case.
Most of Chad's bonds are written at 6%, 7% or 8%. Many families qualify for a lower rate, for example when the defendant has hired a private defense attorney. Ask Chad what your rate is.
For the Family: You Are Not on Trial
When a family member is arrested on a PC 288 charge, the people who call Chad Conley are often in shock. Some are devastated. Some are conflicted. Some don't know what to think. All of them are innocent — they are not the accused, and they deserve to be treated with respect and compassion. Chad works with families every day who are wrestling with the hardest question a loved one can face: do I post bail for someone accused of something this serious? There is no judgment here. Chad's job is to give you accurate information, answer every question honestly, and let you make the decision that is right for your family.
Understanding Your Role as a Cosigner
Cosigning a bail bond on a PC 288 case is one of the most emotionally difficult decisions a person can make. Chad will walk you through exactly what you are agreeing to, what your financial exposure is, and what happens if the defendant fails to appear. You will never be pressured. You will never be rushed. Chad has helped many families through this process and understands that the cosigner is often the most vulnerable person in the room.
What Cosigning Means
- You are financially responsible if the defendant fails to appear in court
- You can surrender the defendant to the court if circumstances change
- Your name and involvement are kept strictly confidential
- Chad will explain every document before you sign anything
Why Families Trust Chad Conley on PC 288 Cases
No Judgment — Ever
Chad does not judge the accused, the family, or the cosigner. His job is to help — not to evaluate the charges.
20 Years of Experience
Chad has handled some of the most complex and sensitive cases in Southern California. He knows how these cases move through the courts.
Complete Confidentiality
Every conversation, every document, every detail of your case is held in strict confidence.
Available 24 Hours a Day
Arrests don't happen on a schedule. Chad is reachable around the clock — nights, weekends, and holidays.
Bilingual Service
Spanish-speaking families can reach Chad's Spanish line directly at (909) 657-6030.
What Happens at Arraignment on a PC 288 Charge
PC 288 defendants are typically arraigned within 48–72 hours of arrest. At arraignment, the judge reviews the charges and sets or modifies bail. On sex offense charges involving minors, prosecutors frequently request bail increases or remand (no bail). Having a bondsman ready before arraignment — and understanding the bail schedule in advance — gives the family the best chance of securing release quickly if bail is granted.
Bail Set at $500,000 or More?
Large bail on a PC 288 case usually comes from extra counts or the One Strike law. Send Chad the address of one or more family homes, and he'll check whether they can support the bond. No application needed to start.
Check My AddressHow the Bail Process Works
Call Chad — Any Time
Reach Chad at 855-BAD-CHAD (855-223-2423). He will answer your questions, explain the process, and give you a clear picture of what to expect — with no pressure.
Gather Basic Information
Chad needs the defendant's full name, date of birth, the jail they are held in, and the booking number if available. He can often locate the booking without a number.
Review the Paperwork Together
Chad walks every cosigner through the bond agreement line by line. Nothing is signed until you fully understand what you are agreeing to.
Bond Is Posted
Once the paperwork is complete and the premium is paid, Chad posts the bond directly with the jail. Release typically takes 4–8 hours depending on the facility.
Defendant Is Released
The defendant is released on the condition that they appear at all scheduled court dates. Chad monitors the case and keeps the cosigner informed.
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.