About the St. Johns County Courthouse
The St. Johns County Courthouse, located in the historic county seat of St. Augustine, serves as a vital hub for the local justice system within the 7th Judicial Circuit of Florida. This circuit covers Flagler, Putnam, St. Johns, and Volusia counties. The St. Johns County Clerk of Court plays a critical role in the legal process, managing all official court records, processing criminal case filings, and accepting official bail and bond payments for individuals facing charges in the county.
Under Florida law, anyone arrested in St. Johns 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 decides whether to set, modify, or deny bail. The Clerk of Court documents these judicial decisions, ensuring that the official bond amounts and release conditions are accurately recorded for the jail and bail bond agents.
Posting Bail in St. Johns County
To secure a release from custody for a case at this courthouse, you can post the full cash bail amount directly with the Clerk of Court or the jail. Alternatively, you can work with a licensed Florida bail bond agent, who can post a surety bond for a non-refundable state-mandated fee, allowing your loved one to be released quickly.
How to Post Bail at St. Johns County Courthouse
There are several ways to post bail in St. Johns 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
St. Johns County Jail
Defendants arrested in St. Johns County are booked into the St. Johns County jail. For detailed jail information including inmate search, visitation hours, and bail schedules: