About the Nassau County Courthouse
The Nassau County Courthouse, located in the county seat of Fernandina Beach, serves as a vital hub for the local justice system. As part of Florida's 4th Judicial Circuit—which also encompasses Duval and Clay counties—this court handles a wide range of legal matters, from misdemeanor offenses to serious felony cases. The Nassau County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller plays a critical role in this process, responsible for maintaining official court records, managing case files, and processing official bail and bond payments for individuals navigating the criminal justice system.
Under Florida law, anyone arrested in Nassau County must receive a first appearance hearing within 24 hours of their arrest. During this initial hearing, a judge reviews the arrest report to determine if probable cause exists, officially informs the defendant of the charges, and addresses pretrial release conditions. This is the crucial stage where the judge typically sets, modifies, or denies bail, establishing the financial conditions required for a defendant to secure their release from custody while their case moves forward through the 4th Judicial Circuit court system.
Posting Bail in Nassau County
To secure a release after bail is set by a judge, you can post the full bail amount directly with the court or jail, which will be refunded minus administrative fees once the case concludes. Alternatively, working with a licensed bail bond agent allows you to pay a non-refundable premium—typically ten percent—to have the bond posted on your behalf, ensuring a much faster release.How to Post Bail at Nassau County Courthouse
There are several ways to post bail in Nassau 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
Nassau County Jail
Defendants arrested in Nassau County are booked into the Nassau County jail. For detailed jail information including inmate search, visitation hours, and bail schedules: