About the Broward County Courthouse
The Broward County Courthouse, located in Fort Lauderdale, serves as the central hub for the 17th Judicial Circuit of Florida. This busy circuit handles a wide range of legal matters, with the Broward County Clerk of Courts managing all official case records, court dockets, and the processing of bail bond payments. When an individual is arrested in Broward County, the Clerk's office plays a vital role in documenting the charges and ensuring that the court's financial transactions, including bond forfeitures and releases, are handled accurately according to state law.
Under Florida rules of criminal procedure, anyone arrested in Broward County must receive a first appearance hearing within 24 hours of their arrest. During this initial hearing, a judge reviews the arrest report, determines if probable cause exists, and decides whether to set, modify, or deny bail. Having a reliable bail bond referral service on your side during this critical 24-hour window can make a significant difference in how quickly your loved one is released from custody.
Posting Bail in Broward County
To secure a release from custody for a case at the Broward County Courthouse, you can utilize a licensed bail bondsman. By paying a non-refundable premium—typically ten percent of the total bail amount set by the judge—the bondsman will post the full bond with the court, allowing the defendant to be released while their case proceeds through the 17th Judicial Circuit.
How to Post Bail at Broward County Courthouse
There are several ways to post bail in Broward County:
- Through a bail bondsman (most common) — Pay 10% of the bail amount to a licensed agent. Call QuickBail at (941) 477-6888 for 24/7 service. This is the fastest method.
- Cash bond at the Clerk's office — Pay the full bail amount in cash, cashier's check, or money order at the Clerk of Court during business hours. The full amount is returned (minus fees) when the case concludes.
- Property bond — Use real property as collateral. Requires property appraisal and court approval. Takes longer to process.
- Surety bond — Posted through a licensed insurance company. Same as a bail bond but directly through the insurer.
Bail Payment Tips
- The Clerk's office typically accepts: cash, cashier's checks, money orders, and some credit cards
- Personal checks are usually NOT accepted for bail payments
- After-hours bail posting requires a bail bondsman — the Clerk's office is closed evenings/weekends
- Bond amounts are set by the judge or per the county's bail schedule
Broward County Jail
Defendants arrested in Broward County are booked into the Broward County jail. For detailed jail information including inmate search, visitation hours, and bail schedules: