VC 10851 Bail Bonds — Vehicle Theft
Auto theft is a wobbler that can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Chad Conley posts bail 24/7 across Southern California.
What Is Vehicle Code 10851?
VC 10851 makes it a crime to take or drive a vehicle belonging to another person without their consent, with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive them of it. Unlike PC 487 (grand theft auto), VC 10851 covers both permanent and temporary taking — joyriding qualifies. It is a wobbler: misdemeanor for first-time offenders with no prior auto theft convictions; felony for repeat offenders or vehicles valued over $950. Auto theft is one of the most common property crimes in Southern California.
Elements of the Charge
- You took or drove a vehicle belonging to another person
- You did so without the owner's consent
- You intended to temporarily or permanently deprive the owner of the vehicle
- Prior auto theft convictions or high vehicle value elevate the charge to a felony
Typical Bail Amounts for VC 10851
| Charge / Scenario | Typical Bail |
|---|---|
| Misdemeanor (first offense, joyriding) | $20,000 |
| Felony (prior record or high-value vehicle) | $30,000–$50,000 |
| Organized auto theft ring | $50,000+ |
| Combined with PC 496 (receiving stolen property) | Stacked — varies |
Bail is set by county schedule and can be modified at arraignment. Prior auto theft convictions significantly affect the charge level.
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
Auto theft charges often hinge on consent and intent. Getting your loved one out before arraignment gives them time to work with a defense attorney to challenge the evidence and explore Prop 47 eligibility for lower-value vehicles.
Cosigning a VC 10851 Bond
Vehicle theft bail 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 VC 10851, the defense may argue for misdemeanor 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