PC 496 Bail Bonds — Receiving Stolen Property
A wobbler charge that can be filed as a misdemeanor or felony. Chad Conley posts bail 24/7 across Southern California.
What Is Penal Code 496?
PC 496 makes it a crime to buy, receive, conceal, sell, or withhold property that you know to be stolen. It is a wobbler — the DA can charge it as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the value of the property and the defendant's criminal history. Under Prop 47, receiving stolen property valued under $950 is generally a misdemeanor. Above that threshold, or with prior convictions, it becomes a felony. This charge is commonly filed in connection with burglary, robbery, and organized retail theft cases.
Elements of the Charge
- You bought, received, concealed, sold, or withheld property
- The property was stolen
- You knew the property was stolen at the time you received it
- You intended to deprive the owner of the property
Typical Bail Amounts for PC 496
| Charge / Scenario | Typical Bail |
|---|---|
| Misdemeanor (property under $950, Prop 47) | $20,000 |
| Felony (property over $950 or prior record) | $30,000–$50,000 |
| Organized retail theft operation | $50,000+ |
| Combined with PC 459 (burglary) or PC 211 (robbery) | Stacked — varies |
Bail is set by county schedule and can be modified at arraignment. Prop 47 eligibility depends on property value and criminal history.
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 $30,000 bail, your cost is $3,000. Chad offers payment plans.
What the Family Needs to Know
Receiving stolen property charges often hinge on what the defendant knew — and when they knew it. Getting your loved one out before arraignment gives them time to work with a defense attorney to challenge the knowledge element and explore Prop 47 eligibility.
Cosigning a PC 496 Bond
Bail for receiving stolen property is generally moderate. 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
- Collateral may be required on larger bail amounts
- The premium is non-refundable once the defendant is released
Why Families Choose Chad Conley
24/7 Availability
Chad answers his phone nights, weekends, and holidays.
Four-County Coverage
Chad posts bail in LA, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties.
Affordable Premiums
Chad offers payment plans for families who need flexibility.
No Judgment
Chad's job is to get your loved one home — not to evaluate the charges.
What Happens at Arraignment
At arraignment, the judge reviews the charges and bail. For PC 496, the defense may argue for Prop 47 treatment or reduced bail. Being out before this hearing gives the defendant and their attorney the best position to negotiate.
Call Chad Now — 855-BAD-CHAD