About the Orange County Courthouse
The Orange County Courthouse, located in the county seat of Orlando, serves as the central hub for the 9th Judicial Circuit of Florida. This circuit has jurisdiction over legal matters in both Orange and Osceola counties. Within this system, the Orange County Clerk of Courts plays a vital role in the administration of justice. The Clerk's office is responsible for processing all criminal case records, managing court dockets, and officially recording bail bond paperwork and payments once they are processed through the court system.
Under Florida law, anyone arrested in Orange County must receive a first appearance hearing within 24 hours of their arrest. During this crucial initial hearing, a judge reviews the arrest report, determines if probable cause exists, and decides whether to set, deny, or modify bail. If the judge grants bail, the defendant has the opportunity to secure their release from custody while their criminal case proceeds through the 9th Judicial Circuit court system.
Posting Bail in Orange County
To secure a release after bail is set by the court, you can utilize a licensed bail bond agent to post a surety bond. The bail bondsman charges a non-refundable premium, which is set by Florida law at ten percent of the total bail amount. Once the bond is filed and accepted, the defendant is released with the obligation to attend all scheduled court dates at the courthouse.
How to Post Bail at Orange County Courthouse
There are several ways to post bail in Orange 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
Orange County Jail
Defendants arrested in Orange County are booked into the Orange County jail. For detailed jail information including inmate search, visitation hours, and bail schedules: