Florida Criminal Procedure
Bail & Bond in Florida
Getting out of jail quickly can shape the entire case. Here is how Florida sets bail, what the options are, and how a lawyer can push for a lower bond.
Attorney-Reviewed Statute Resource
Reviewed by Jeff T. Gorman, Criminal Defense Attorney & Former 19th Circuit Prosecutor (Fla. Bar #538183).
Last reviewed: June 2026
First Appearance & Bond
Within 24 hours of arrest, you appear before a judge for "first appearance." The judge reviews the charges and sets conditions of release, which usually includes a bond amount.
The Governing Statute
Fla. R. Crim. P. 3.131 — Pretrial Release (Bail)
"Unless charged with a capital offense or an offense punishable by life imprisonment, every person charged with a crime is entitled to pretrial release on reasonable conditions."
Read the full statute on Online Sunshine →
The judge weighs factors like the seriousness of the charge, your ties to the community, your record, and any risk of flight or danger. Some minor offenses have a standard bond schedule; serious charges are decided individually.
Your Options
Ways to Post Bond
Cash bond: Pay the full amount, refundable at case end.
Surety bond: Pay a bail bondsman a non-refundable fee (typically 10%).
Release on own recognizance (ROR): Released on a promise to appear, no money required.
An attorney can request a bond reduction hearing to lower an amount that is too high.
Surety bond: Pay a bail bondsman a non-refundable fee (typically 10%).
Release on own recognizance (ROR): Released on a promise to appear, no money required.
An attorney can request a bond reduction hearing to lower an amount that is too high.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before you see a judge for bail in Florida?
Within 24 hours of arrest. At this "first appearance," the judge reviews the charges and sets conditions of release, usually including a bond amount.
Can a lawyer lower my bond in Florida?
Yes. An attorney can request a bond reduction hearing and argue for a lower amount or release on recognizance, based on your ties to the community, record, and the circumstances of the charge.
Charged Under This Statute?
A statute on a page is not the same as your case. Talk to an attorney who has handled these charges — free, confidential.
This page summarizes Fla. R. Crim. P. 3.131 for general informational purposes and is not legal advice. Statutes change; while this page is reviewed by a licensed Florida attorney, always verify the current text on the official Online Sunshine source or consult an attorney about your specific situation. Serving Martin, St. Lucie, Palm Beach, Indian River, and Okeechobee Counties.