What Are the First Steps After Being Arrested in Florida? How Do I Get Bail or Bond?

How can I get help with Bail or a Bond?

Getting arrested is a stressful, confusing, and overwhelming experience—especially if it’s your first time navigating the criminal justice system. If you or a loved one has been arrested in Lake County, Florida, knowing what to do next can make all the difference in how quickly you regain your freedom and begin building a strong defense. At Dale’s Bail Bonds, located right here in Tavares, FL, we’ve helped thousands of families through this difficult process with compassion, speed, and professionalism. Here’s a clear guide on the first steps to take after an arrest in Florida—and how to secure a bail bond efficiently and affordably.

Step 1: Understand What Happens Immediately After Arrest

When someone is arrested in Florida, they are typically taken into custody by local law enforcement (such as the Lake County Sheriff’s Office) and transported to the county jail - in Lake County, that’s the Lake County Jail in Tavares. Once booked, the individual will be processed: photographed, fingerprinted, and entered into the system. Their personal belongings will be inventoried and stored.

At this point, the person is not free to leave. But under Florida law, most individuals are entitled to seek release through bail - a financial guarantee that ensures they’ll return for future court appearances.

Step 2: Determine the Bail Amount

In Florida, there are two primary ways bail is set:

Standard Bail Schedule: For many misdemeanor and non-violent felony charges, Florida uses a pre-set “bail schedule.” This means a standard bail amount is automatically assigned based on the alleged offense. If your charge is on this schedule, you may be eligible for release without waiting for a judge.

First Appearance Hearing: If the charge is more serious (e.g., domestic violence, DUI with injury, or certain felonies), or if the person has prior offenses, they must appear before a judge—usually within 24 hours of arrest—for a “first appearance” hearing. During this hearing, the judge reviews the charges, advises the defendant of their rights, and sets bail (or denies it in rare cases).

You can check the current status and bail amount of an inmate at the Lake County Jail website using their online inmate search tool.

Step 3: Contact a Trusted Bail Bond Agent

Once bail is set, you have options to pay it:

Pay the full amount in cash directly to the court (this is refunded after the case concludes, provided all court appearances are made).

Use a bail bond agent - like Dale’s Bail Bonds - to post a surety bond for a fraction of the total bail amount.

For most people, paying the full bail amount isn’t feasible. That’s where a licensed bail bondsman comes in.

In Florida, bail bond agents charge a non-refundable premium of 10% of the total bail amount (as set by state law). For example, if bail is $10,000, the fee is $1,000. This fee covers the bond service and is not returned - even if the case is dismissed.

At Dale’s Bail Bonds, we offer:

24/7 availability – arrests happen anytime, and so do we.

Fast processing – often securing release in under an hour once paperwork is complete.

Flexible payment plans – because we understand finances can be tight during emergencies.

Local expertise – we know the Lake County court system, judges, and jail procedures inside and out.

Step 4: Complete the Bail Bond Process

To secure a bond through Dale’s Bail Bonds, you’ll need to:

• Call us immediately at 352-742-3366 or visit our Tavares office.

• We’re available day or night.

• Provide basic information: the arrestee’s full name, date of birth, and booking number

• Meet with a licensed agent (in person or remotely) to sign the bail bond agreement.

• Pay the 10% premium (we accept cash, credit cards, and other payment methods).

In some cases, collateral may be required for higher bail amounts—but not always.

Once the bond is posted, the jail will begin the release process. While timing varies, most releases from Lake County Jail occur within 2–6 hours after bond submission.

Step 5: Understand Your Responsibilities After Release

Getting out on bond is not the end of the process—it’s just the beginning. The defendant must:

1. Attend all scheduled court dates.

2. Comply with any conditions set by the judge (e.g., no contact orders, drug testing, travel restrictions).

3. Stay in contact with their attorney and bail bond agent.

4. Failure to appear in court can result in:

5. A warrant for re-arrest.

6. Forfeiture of the bond.

7. Additional criminal charges (like “failure to appear”).

At Dale’s Bail Bonds, we provide reminders for court dates and support throughout the legal process—not just during the bond posting.

Why Choose Dale’s Bail Bonds in Tavares?

When you’re facing an arrest in Lake County, Florida, you need someone who acts fast, treats you with dignity, and knows the local system. As a family-owned and operated business serving Tavares, Clermont, Eustis, Mount Dora, and all of Lake County for over 20 plus years, Dale’s Bail Bonds has built a reputation for reliability, integrity, and care.

We don’t just post bonds - we help families navigate crisis with clarity and confidence. Our bilingual staff is ready to assist, and our transparent pricing means no hidden fees or surprises.

Final Thoughts

An arrest doesn’t have to mean days or weeks behind bars. Florida’s bail system is designed to allow pretrial release for most individuals, and with the right support, you can get back home quickly while preparing your defense.

If you or someone you love has been arrested in Lake County, don’t wait. Every minute counts. Call Dale’s Bail Bonds today at 352-742-3366 or visit us in Tavares. We’re here for you - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Your freedom is our priority!!

Dale’s Bail Bonds: Serving Lake County, FL with Speed, Compassion, and Integrity

Licensed. Bonded. Trusted.