About the Putnam County Courthouse
The Putnam County Courthouse, located in the county seat of Palatka, serves as a vital hub for the local justice system within the 7th Judicial Circuit of Florida. This circuit also encompasses Flagler, St. Johns, and Volusia counties. The Putnam County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller plays a critical role in the legal process, managing all official court records, processing case filings, and accepting official bail and bond payments for individuals facing charges in the local court system.
Under Florida law, anyone arrested in Putnam 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 establishes the conditions of release, which often includes setting a specific bail amount. The Clerk's office ensures these judicial decisions are accurately recorded and that the paperwork is processed promptly to facilitate the next steps in the legal proceedings.
Posting Bail for a Putnam County Case
To secure a release from custody after bail has been set by a judge, you can work with a licensed bail bond agent to post a surety bond. The bail bondsman charges a non-refundable fee—typically 10% of the total bail amount, as regulated by Florida law—and coordinates with the local detention facility and the court system to ensure a fast release.
How to Post Bail at Putnam County Courthouse
There are several ways to post bail in Putnam 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
Putnam County Jail
Defendants arrested in Putnam County are booked into the Putnam County jail. For detailed jail information including inmate search, visitation hours, and bail schedules: