This Pasadena Courthouse Overview provides all the essential information needed for visitors and clients, following the same format as the Alfred J. McCourtney Juvenile Center webpage.
The Pasadena Courthouse is one of the key courts in Los Angeles County, handling a broad range of criminal, civil, family law, and traffic cases. It serves Pasadena and surrounding communities such as Altadena, San Marino, and South Pasadena.
When an individual is arrested in Los Angeles County, they are typically booked at a detention facility such as Pasadena Jail before appearing at the Pasadena Courthouse for a bail hearing. The court will then decide whether the defendant will remain in custody or be released pending trial.
At the Pasadena Courthouse, bail is typically set for individuals facing criminal charges. However, in some cases, alternative release options may be granted instead of traditional bail.
Arrest and Booking: The defendant is arrested and taken to Pasadena Jail for processing and booking.
Bail Hearing: The judge will set the bail amount based on the severity of the charges, the defendant’s criminal history, and other factors.
Posting Bail: Armstrong Bail Bonds assists in posting bail quickly to secure the defendant’s release.
Release: Once bail is posted, the defendant is released from custody while awaiting their next court appearance.
Court Appearances: The defendant must attend all scheduled hearings. Missing a court date may result in further charges or a bench warrant.
Severity of Charges: Serious charges such as felony assault, robbery, or drug trafficking will often result in higher bail amounts.
Criminal History: Defendants with a criminal record or prior probation violations may face higher bail amounts or alternative release conditions.
Flight Risk: If the court believes the defendant may not return for future court dates, they may set a higher bail or deny bail entirely.
Community Ties: Defendants with strong community connections (e.g., stable employment, family) may receive a lower bail amount or be granted release on their own recognizance (OR).
Supervised Release: The court may grant supervised release with conditions such as curfews, electronic monitoring, or regular check-ins with probation officers.
Own Recognizance (OR) Release: In certain circumstances, the judge may release the defendant without bail, trusting that they will return for their court appearances based on their community ties and reputation.
Armstrong Bail Bonds provides fast, professional, and reliable bail bond services at the Pasadena Courthouse.
We work closely with the court system to ensure the defendant is released as quickly as possible.
Our team is available 24/7 to help families navigate the bail process and secure their loved one’s release.
When a defendant is detained and their case is assigned to the Pasadena Courthouse, they are required to attend all scheduled court hearings. Court appearances are crucial for the case to move forward and to determine whether the defendant will be released, placed on probation, or face further legal consequences.
Court appearances are an essential part of the legal process. Missing a scheduled court date may lead to serious consequences such as:
Failure to appear at a court hearing can result in:
To prevent these consequences, Armstrong Bail Bonds offers court date reminders and ongoing support to ensure families and defendants stay on track with their obligations.
If your loved one is detained at Pasadena Jail or another detention facility while awaiting their trial at the Pasadena Courthouse, you may be eligible for visitation.
Visitation Hours & Scheduling:
Visitor Rules & Requirements:
The Pasadena Courthouse handles a wide range of criminal, civil, family law, and traffic cases. Below are some of the most common charges brought before this courthouse, which serves Pasadena, Altadena, San Marino, South Pasadena, and surrounding communities.
Possession of Controlled Substances: Charges for possessing illegal drugs such as marijuana (in certain situations), methamphetamine, cocaine, or prescription drugs without a prescription.
Possession with Intent to Distribute: Charges related to possessing large quantities of controlled substances, suggesting an intent to sell.
Drug Trafficking: Charges for transporting or distributing drugs.
Drug Paraphernalia: Possessing items such as pipes, vapes, or needles used for consuming drugs.
Petty Theft: The unlawful taking of property valued under $950.
Grand Theft: Theft of property valued over $950 or from an individual, such as a purse snatching or car theft.
Burglary: Entering a structure with the intent to steal or commit a crime.
Vandalism: Willful destruction of property, including graffiti or breaking windows.
Simple Battery: The unlawful use of force or violence against another person without causing injury.
Battery Causing Injury: Battery where the victim sustains physical injury.
Assault with a Deadly Weapon: Assault involving a weapon capable of causing significant harm, such as a knife or gun.
Domestic Violence: Violence or threats of violence between family members, including spouses, partners, or children.
Carrying a Concealed Weapon: Possessing a firearm, knife, or other weapon in a concealed manner without a permit.
Possession of a Firearm by a Felon: A convicted felon caught possessing a firearm, which is prohibited by law.
Brandishing a Weapon: Displaying or waving a weapon in a threatening manner.
DUI of Alcohol: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
DUI of Drugs: Driving while impaired by drugs, including prescription medications, marijuana, or illegal substances.
Underage DUI: DUI charges for minors under the legal drinking age.
Child Custody: Disputes over the legal and physical custody of children, including joint or sole custody arrangements.
Child Support: Legal proceedings for the financial support of a child by the non-custodial parent.
Divorce: Legal dissolution of a marriage, including matters of asset division and spousal support.
Domestic Violence: Abuse or threats of abuse between family members or partners, which can result in restraining orders and protective measures.
Temporary Restraining Orders (TRO): Short-term orders issued to protect an individual from harassment or violence.
Permanent Restraining Orders: Long-term protection orders issued after a hearing, often in cases of ongoing abuse or threats.
Speeding & Reckless Driving: Offenses such as exceeding speed limits or driving aggressively.
DUI (Driving Under the Influence): Alcohol or drug-related offenses leading to the suspension of a driver’s license and possible jail time.
Driving Without a License: Operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license or permit.
Probation Violations: Individuals accused of violating the terms of their probation may return to court for a violation hearing.
Violation of a Protective Order: Breaking the terms of a restraining order, often related to domestic violence cases.