A plain-English walkthrough of Florida bail, from arrest to release.
In Florida, a bail bond lets you pay a licensed bondsman a premium, typically 10% of the bail amount for state charges and 15% for federal, to post the full bail so the defendant is released while the case is pending. After the bond is posted, release usually takes 2 to 8 hours.
When someone is arrested in Florida, a judge or the county bond schedule sets a bail amount. Paying the full amount in cash is out of reach for most families, so a licensed bail bondsman posts it for you in exchange for a set premium.
Here is the process from start to finish, and what it costs.
A few hours
The person is booked into the county jail and assigned a booking number. In Monroe County that is the detention center on Stock Island; in Miami-Dade it is TGK, Metro West or PDC.
Magistrate or bond schedule
A court magistrate sets bail, or the charge follows a standard bond schedule. Many charges have a preset amount, which means a bond can be posted before the first court date.
24/7
Give the bondsman the defendant's name, the jail and the bail amount. Mz Bee's answers day or night at (305) 783-7006.
10% state, 15% federal
The indemnitor (co-signer) signs the agreement and pays the premium. Payment plans and no-collateral bonds are available in most cases.
Same day
The bondsman posts the full bail with the jail, guaranteeing the defendant will appear in court.
2 to 8 hours
Processing time depends on how busy the jail is. Most people are released within a few hours of the bond being posted.
| Bond type | Typical premium | Example on $10,000 bail |
|---|---|---|
| Florida state bond | 10% | $1,000 |
| Federal bond | 15% | $1,500 |
| Immigration bond | Varies | Call for a quote |
Premiums are 10% of the bail amount for state charges and 15% for federal. We offer payment plans and no-collateral bonds in most cases.
Usually 2 to 8 hours, depending on how busy the jail is.
Not in most cases. Many bonds are written with no collateral; we can tell you after a quick call.
Call us right away. Acting fast can often prevent a bond forfeiture and a new warrant.
Call (305) 783-7006. A licensed agent answers 24/7 and can walk you through your exact case.
Hands down the best experience I could've asked for. Jayla and Ashley were both extremely professional and responsive. They walked me through everything and made sure the process went smoothly from start to finish. Ashley made sure I understood everything and was the sweetest person to work with!
Bianca is great at getting you out fast! I trust her with me and my family. Don't miss that court date though or she is coming for ya!! She is really kind though and would probably bail you out again.
Very professional and helpful! Had no idea where to start and she helped me with the whole process and was quick. Highly recommend!