Alameda County Superior Court
Traffic Court Self Help

Bail Forfeiture

1. How Is the Fine or Bail Determined on my Case?

The California legislature enacts minimum and maximum fines for all violations of state laws, while the Board of Supervisors or City Councils enact local laws. The State of California and the County of Alameda have also adopted laws that add an "assessment" to the amount of the fine. The California Judicial Council publishes a Uniform Bail Schedule that sets the amount of bail on all vehicle code infractions for individuals wishing to pay their citations without a court appearance. The Superior Court of California, County of Alameda sets bail on all non-vehicle code infractions, all misdemeanors and all felonies. The Judicial Council recommends an increase for each prior conviction up to the maximum permitted by law.

When you appear in court, the Commissioner may impose any fine between the minimum and maximum fines based upon the facts of your case and your record of prior convictions.

2. What Types of Payment Are Accepted?
   

   The Court will accept payment in the form of personal check, money order, cashier’s check and cash. (Please do not send cash through the mail). The Court will also accept payment by credit card (Visa or Mastercard) when using our phone-automated system. A convenience fee will be charged to your account to use this service, (see credit card payment). There is no charge for payment via the Internet.

3. Where Do I Pay my Fine or Bail?

In person, you may pay your fine/bail at any court facility that handles traffic matters. It does not matter where your citation was issued. These facilities are: (see Court locations and hours).

If paid by mail, you should send your fine/bail to the facility listed on your citation or courtesy notice. Write your citation or docket number on your check and all correspondence. Make your check or money order payable to: Clerk of the Court.

4. Can I Make Monthly Payments?

Monthly payments can only be made if permitted by an order from the Commissioner. You must schedule a court date to request monthly payments. If monthly payments are granted, there will be an additional $35 accounts receivable fee added to your fine/bail. Your monthly payment will be made Central Collections.

By mail: Alameda County Central Collections P.O. Box 55488 Hayward, CA 94545-0488

In person: Mon.- Fri. 8:30a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Central Collections 1221 Oak St., Room 220 Oakland, CA 94612

5. Credit Card Payments

Visa and MasterCard payments are accepted on most fines/bails.

There is no fee for payments made over the Internet.

To see if your case can be paid by credit card, you must call our interactive telephone system that is available from 5:00a.m. - 9:00p.m. daily, except from 7:00am - 9:00am on Sundays. (See court phone numbers.) Note: A convenience fee will be charged to your account for credit card payments.