Posting Bail in Broward County, Florida
Broward County, home to Fort Lauderdale and one of the most populous counties in Florida, processes a large number of arrests each year. Understanding how bail works in Broward County can help you act quickly when a loved one is arrested and get them released as soon as possible.
Broward County Detention Facilities
The Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) operates the following detention facilities:
- Broward County Main Jail — 555 SE 1st Avenue, Fort Lauderdale (primary booking facility)
- North Broward Bureau — 900 SW 23rd Street, Pompano Beach
- Joseph V. Conte Facility — 1351 NW 27th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale
How the Bail Process Works in Broward
- Arrest and booking: After arrest, the defendant is transported to the Main Jail or a local BSO district for booking.
- First Appearance: Florida law requires a First Appearance hearing within 24 hours. A judge reviews charges and sets bail. Broward County holds First Appearances daily, including weekends.
- Bail determination: For many charges, bail follows a preset schedule. For felonies, the judge may adjust the amount based on the charges and defendant's history.
- Contact a bondsman: Florida's bail premium is 10%. Broward County has many licensed bondsmen operating 24/7 near the Main Jail.
- Post the bond: The bondsman files the bond with the jail. Provide the defendant's name, booking number, and co-signer information.
- Release: Processing and release typically take 6-12 hours.
Common Bail Amounts in Broward County
- DUI: $500 — $3,000
- Petit theft: $250 — $1,000
- Battery: $1,000 — $5,000
- Drug possession: $2,000 — $10,000
- Burglary: $10,000 — $50,000
- Robbery: $25,000 — $100,000
Spring Break and Tourist Season
Broward County, particularly Fort Lauderdale, sees increased arrests during spring break and tourist season. The jail can become especially busy during these periods, leading to longer processing times. Common tourist-related arrests include public intoxication, DUI, disorderly conduct, and drug possession.
Finding the Right Bondsman
When choosing a bail bondsman in Broward County, look for a company licensed by the Florida Department of Financial Services, with experience at Broward detention facilities, availability around the clock, and transparent pricing with payment plan options. Many bondsmen near the courthouse area specialize in quick turnaround times.
Find a trusted Broward County bail bondsman at BailBondFinders.com.