Santa Monica Courthouse Overview
Court Address:
The Santa Monica Courthouse is located at:
1725 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Phone Number:
To inquire about a case or get information on court procedures, contact the courthouse directly at:
đź“ž (310) 255-1840
Hours of Operation:
The Santa Monica Courthouse is generally open:
Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Hours may vary by department (e.g., criminal, traffic, civil), so it’s best to call ahead or check online before visiting.
Website:
For court calendars, traffic ticket info, case lookup tools, and more, visit the official Los Angeles Superior Court website:
LA Superior Court – Santa Monica Courthouse
Need Bail at the Santa Monica Courthouse?
At Armstrong Bail Bonds, we provide fast, reliable bail bond services for individuals with cases at the Santa Monica Courthouse. Whether your loved one is facing misdemeanor charges, felony accusations, or traffic-related issues, our licensed agents are available 24/7 to help secure their release quickly and discreetly.
đź“ž Call us now for immediate bail assistance: (818) 241-2171
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 Jurisdiction & Case Types – Santa Monica Courthouse
The Santa Monica Courthouse is a key facility within the Los Angeles County court system, located just minutes from the beach in Santa Monica. It handles a wide range of legal matters—primarily criminal, traffic, civil, and limited family law cases—for individuals arrested or cited in Santa Monica and nearby Westside communities like Venice, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, and West LA.
 Felony Offenses
The Santa Monica Courthouse hears a variety of felony cases involving serious or violent crimes. Felonies are criminal offenses that carry potential penalties of more than one year in jail or prison.
Common felony charges processed here include:
- Armed robbery or assault with a deadly weapon
- Possession or distribution of controlled substances
- Grand theft or burglary
- Repeat domestic violence charges
- Vehicular crimes causing serious injury
Misdemeanor Offenses
Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies but can still result in jail time, fines, or probation. These cases are commonly filed and resolved at the Santa Monica Courthouse.
Examples of misdemeanor cases include:
- Petty theft and shoplifting
- First-time DUI offenses
- Simple battery or assault
- Public intoxication
- Disturbing the peace or resisting arrest
 Traffic-Related Cases
The courthouse also processes numerous traffic matters, including criminal traffic violations that go beyond standard tickets or citations.
Examples include:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Reckless or unsafe driving
- Driving without a valid license or on a suspended license
- Hit-and-run (misdemeanor level)
- Speeding in school or construction zones
The Santa Monica Courthouse serves as the first point of contact for many individuals entering the criminal justice system in this area. Whether you’re facing charges or helping a loved one in custody, Armstrong Bail Bonds is here to assist with fast, local bail support tailored to this specific courthouse.
How Bail Works at the Santa Monica Courthouse in Los Angeles
When someone is arrested in Santa Monica or the surrounding Westside areas (like Venice, Brentwood, or Pacific Palisades), they are typically taken to the Santa Monica Jail or transferred to a nearby Los Angeles County facility for booking. From there, their case will likely be handled at the Santa Monica Courthouse, where a judge will determine if bail will be granted—and in what amount.
 The Bail Evaluation Process
Bail may be determined in one of two ways:
Pre-Set Bail Schedule:
For many non-violent or first-time offenses, Los Angeles County uses a preset bail schedule, allowing bail to be posted shortly after arrest—often without the need for a court appearance.
Formal Bail Hearings:
For more serious or complex charges, a judge at the Santa Monica Courthouse will hold a formal bail hearing. This typically takes place during the defendant’s first court appearance, known as an arraignment.
 Factors That Influence Bail Decisions
At the Santa Monica Courthouse, the judge considers several factors when determining whether to set bail, reduce it, or deny it altogether:
Severity of the Charge: Violent felonies or offenses involving weapons often result in higher bail.
Criminal History: Prior convictions or a history of failing to appear may increase the bail amount.
Flight Risk: If the defendant is seen as a flight risk, bail may be denied or set higher.
Public Safety Concerns: If the individual poses a danger to others, the court may issue a no-bail hold.
 Posting Bail at the Santa Monica Courthouse
Once bail is set, there are two main ways to secure a release:
Pay the Full Amount to the Court: This can be tens of thousands of dollars or more, depending on the case.
Use a Bail Bond Service: This is where Armstrong Bail Bonds comes in. We help families post bail with only a 10% non-refundable premium—and in many cases, no collateral is required.
 Armstrong Bail Bonds – Your Santa Monica Courthouse Bail Partner
We’re experts in handling bail matters specifically at the Santa Monica Courthouse and nearby jails. Here’s how we help:
âś… Rapid Response
Our licensed bail agents are available 24/7. As soon as bail is set, we coordinate with jail staff and the courthouse to begin the release process—fast.
No-Collateral Bonds
Many clients qualify for no-collateral bail bonds, meaning you don’t need to risk personal property like your home or car.
We understand that bail isn’t always expected. We offer affordable installment plans with low monthly payments and no large upfront costs.
Bail Bond Payment Options
Armstrong Bail Bonds makes paying for bail as easy and convenient as possible:
Installment Plans: Custom payment schedules to fit your budget
No-Collateral Bonds: For qualifying applicants
Multiple Payment Methods: We accept credit/debit cards, cash, bank transfers, and offer remote payment options for family members outside the LA area
If your loved one is being held at the Santa Monica Jail or has an upcoming court appearance at the Santa Monica Courthouse, don’t delay. Call Armstrong Bail Bonds anytime—day or night—for compassionate, knowledgeable, and immediate bail assistance.
đź“ž Call Now: (818) 241-2171
👩‍⚖️ Court Appearances & Visitation – Santa Monica Courthouse, Los Angeles
Court Appearance Responsibilities
If a person is released on bail after being arrested in Santa Monica or the surrounding areas, they are typically required to return to the Santa Monica Courthouse for all scheduled hearings. These appearances are not optional—they are legally mandatory.
Failing to appear in court (known as “FTA”) can lead to serious consequences, including the forfeiture of bail, issuance of an arrest warrant, and additional criminal charges.
Why Court Attendance Matters
Each court appearance is a critical step in the legal process. Whether it’s an arraignment, pretrial conference, motion hearing, or sentencing, the defendant must show up and be prepared.
Here are a few tips to stay on track:
- Arrive early and dress appropriately
- Bring any required documentation and be accompanied by legal counsel, if applicable
- Track court dates using your attorney, the court clerk’s office, or the LA Superior Court website
 Consequences of Failing to Appear (FTA)
Missing a court date can lead to immediate legal complications:
- The judge may issue a bench warrant for your arrest
- Bail may be forfeited, meaning any money or collateral posted could be lost
- Additional criminal charges may be filed for Failure to Appear
- Future bail may be denied or set at a much higher amount
At Armstrong Bail Bonds, we help clients avoid these setbacks by providing court date reminders, rescheduling assistance, and ongoing guidance through the process.
 Inmate Visitation Guidelines (If the Defendant Remains in Custody)
If your loved one is not released on bail or is awaiting court proceedings in custody, they are most likely held at the Santa Monica Jail or another nearby LA County detention center.
Visitation Hours & Scheduling
Visitation schedules vary by facility, and most jails require advance appointments. We strongly recommend calling the detention center ahead of time or visiting the Los Angeles Police Department or LA County Sheriff’s Department websites for updated visitation rules.
How to Schedule a Visit
- Contact the Santa Monica Jail or other facility directly
- Only approved visitors are allowed access
- Visits must be pre-scheduled—walk-in visits are typically not permitted
Visitor Rules & Requirements
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID
- Follow all dress code requirements (no revealing or offensive clothing)
- Personal belongings such as phones, bags, or food are not allowed inside the visitation area
- Disruptive behavior may result in visit termination or suspension
Armstrong Bail Bonds – Helping You Stay on Track
At Armstrong Bail Bonds, we do more than post bail. We work alongside families to:
- Track and remind clients of court dates
- Assist with rescheduling missed hearings, when possible
- Provide guidance on visitation procedures and requirements
- Act as your local partner through the Santa Monica Courthouse process
Common Charges Handled at the Santa Monica Courthouse – Los Angeles
The Santa Monica Courthouse serves as a primary legal venue for a wide variety of criminal charges—ranging from minor misdemeanors to serious felony offenses. Located on the Westside of Los Angeles, this courthouse processes cases for individuals arrested in Santa Monica, Venice, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, and surrounding communities.
Below are some of the most frequently encountered charges at the Santa Monica Courthouse—many of which are eligible for bail with help from Armstrong Bail Bonds.
 Drug-Related Offenses
Drug crimes are among the most common charges seen at the Santa Monica Courthouse. These offenses can vary in severity depending on the substance, amount, and intent.
Typical charges include:
Possession of a Controlled Substance, such as methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, or prescription pills without a valid prescription
Possession for Sale or Distribution, which may be charged as a felony
Drug Paraphernalia Possession, including pipes, syringes, or digital scales
Penalties may include probation, court-mandated rehab, or jail time. Many of these charges are bailable, and we act quickly to help clients regain their freedom.
DUI – Driving Under the Influence
DUI cases are regularly filed at the Santa Monica Courthouse and may involve alcohol, marijuana, prescription drugs, or other impairing substances.
Common DUI scenarios include:
First-Time DUI, typically a misdemeanor, but with mandatory penalties like license suspension, DUI classes, and court fines
Repeat DUI Offenders, facing enhanced charges and longer jail terms
DUI with Injury or Property Damage, which may be charged as a felony
Armstrong Bail Bonds is available 24/7 to secure release so you or your loved one can begin preparing a proper legal defense.
 Domestic Violence Charges
The Santa Monica Courthouse takes domestic violence matters seriously. These cases often involve urgent hearings, protective orders, and strict release conditions.
Common domestic-related charges include:
Domestic Battery, involving any physical harm or unwanted contact with a partner, spouse, or household member
Criminal Threats or Stalking
Violation of Restraining Orders, including indirect contact via text or social media
Child Endangerment, especially when children are present during disputes
We act quickly to post bail and help stabilize difficult situations while you work with legal counsel.
 Theft and Property Crimes
Theft-related charges at the Santa Monica Courthouse range from minor retail theft to felony-level burglary or fraud.
Examples include:
Petty Theft, often involving stolen goods valued under $950
Shoplifting, especially from local retailers along the Promenade or Santa Monica Place
Grand Theft, charged when stolen property exceeds $950
Residential or Commercial Burglary, considered felonies due to unlawful entry with intent to commit a crime
If bail is an option, our team works swiftly to arrange release and ease the stress on your family.
 Assault & Battery Offenses
Violent crimes, even at the misdemeanor level, are taken seriously and often lead to arrest and formal court proceedings.
Common charges include:
Simple Battery, or unlawful physical contact that doesn’t result in serious injury
Assault with a Deadly Weapon, such as using a car, object, or firearm to threaten or harm
Battery Causing Serious Bodily Injury, often prosecuted as a felony
Battery Against Emergency Personnel, including police officers, EMTs, or nurses
We understand the urgency of these cases and are ready to provide fast bail assistance at any hour.
 Fast Help from Armstrong Bail Bonds – Santa Monica Courthouse Specialists
No matter the charge—whether it’s a drug arrest, DUI, domestic violence, or theft—Armstrong Bail Bonds is your trusted partner for quick, compassionate bail assistance. We’re deeply familiar with the procedures at the Santa Monica Courthouse and Santa Monica Jail, and we’re here to support you through every step.
đź“ž Call now for 24/7 bail bond assistance: (818) 241-2171
Frequently asked questions about Santa Monica Courthouse
Where is the Santa Monica Courthouse located?
The Santa Monica Courthouse is located at 1725 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401, just a few blocks from the beach. It handles criminal, traffic, civil, and some limited family law matters for the Westside region of Los Angeles.
What jail do arrestees typically go to before appearing in Santa Monica Courthouse?
Most individuals arrested in areas like Santa Monica, Venice, Brentwood, and Pacific Palisades are initially booked at the Santa Monica Jail or transferred to a larger L.A. County facility, such as Men’s Central Jail or Twin Towers Correctional Facility, before their court appearance.
How soon can bail be posted after arrest?
In many cases, bail can be posted immediately after booking—especially if the charge falls under a preset bail schedule. For more serious offenses, a formal bail hearing may be required at the Santa Monica Courthouse. Armstrong Bail Bonds is available 24/7 to begin the process as soon as bail is set.
What happens if I miss my court appearance at the Santa Monica Courthouse?
Missing your court date can result in a bench warrant, forfeiture of any posted bail, and potentially new criminal charges for Failure to Appear (FTA). If you’re at risk of missing court, contact your attorney or Armstrong Bail Bonds immediately—we may be able to help reschedule the hearing and avoid further issues.
Can Armstrong Bail Bonds help with court date reminders?
Yes. We provide court date tracking and reminders to help clients stay on top of their obligations and avoid unnecessary penalties. It’s part of our full-service bail support.
How much does it cost to post bail?
Under California law, licensed bail agents charge 10% of the total bail amount as a non-refundable premium. Armstrong Bail Bonds also offers affordable payment plans and no-collateral options for those who qualify.
What forms of payment are accepted?
We accept all major credit and debit cards, bank transfers, cash, and also provide remote payment options for families and friends located outside the Los Angeles area.
Can I visit someone still in custody while their case is at the Santa Monica Courthouse?
Yes. If your loved one remains in custody at the Santa Monica Jail or another LA County facility, in-person visitation may be allowed—but visits must be scheduled in advance. Be sure to check with the Los Angeles Police Department or L.A. County Sheriff’s Department websites for current visitation rules and schedules.
How long does it take to get someone released from jail after posting bail?
Release times typically range from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the jail’s processing time, time of day, and the complexity of the case. Our agents work directly with local jails and courthouse staff to speed up the process as much as possible.
How do I get started with Armstrong Bail Bonds?
It’s simple—just give us a call anytime, day or night. Our friendly, licensed bail agents will walk you through the entire process, answer your questions, and work fast to get your loved one out of custody and back home.
đź“ž Call now: (818) 241-2171