If you can't afford bail, you will remain in jail until your court date, which can range from weeks for minor offenses to months or even years for serious charges. The timeline largely depends on the complexity of the case, the court's schedule, and whether there are any delays in the legal process.
Bail is an agreement between a suspect or accused person with the police/court that the accused person will attend court when required, and that should the accused person fail to appear, the court may issue warrants of arrest, and order forfeiture of the amount deposited.
Visit the Jail's Website: Most county jails have a website. Look for a section labeled “Inmate Search” or “Jail Roster.” Enter the Details: You'll need some information like the defendant's name, booking number, or date of birth. Once entered, this should bring up details about the inmate, including the bond amount.
The uniform bond schedule The new law mandates the Florida Supreme Court to establish a uniform schedule for specific offenses not included in the “dangerous crime” category. This schedule became effective on January 1, 2024, outlining set bond amounts for various felonies and misdemeanors.
The maximum stay depends on the court system. Typically you will be held until your trial, also called "pretrial detention." While you have the right to a "speedy" trial, the definition of this is up to the court and can vary. This means you might be kept in jail for anything from a few weeks to several years.
In Florida, bail is determined by the judge based on factors like the severity of the charges, your criminal history, and whether you are considered a flight risk. The judge may also consider community ties and the potential danger to the public.
Under Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.134, state prosecutors generally have up to 30 days to file charges against someone following their arrest. If the defendant remains uncharged, the court must release them on their own recognizance by the 33rd day following their initial arrest.