About the Union County Courthouse
Located in the county seat of Lake Butler, the Union County Courthouse serves as the central hub for the local legal system within Florida's 8th Judicial Circuit. The Union County Clerk of Court plays a vital role in this system, managing all official court records, processing case filings, and accepting bail bond payments. When an individual is arrested in Union County, the Clerk's office ensures that all legal documentation is properly filed and accessible as the case moves through the criminal justice system.
In accordance with Florida law, anyone arrested in Union County must receive a first appearance hearing within 24 hours of their arrest. During this crucial hearing, a judge reviews the arrest report to determine probable cause, addresses legal representation, and sets the bail amount or conditions of release. As part of the 8th Judicial Circuit, which also encompasses Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Gilchrist, and Levy counties, the Union County court system adheres to strict statewide standards to ensure a fair and prompt judicial process for all defendants.
Posting Bail in Union County
To secure a release from custody after bail is set by the court, you can work with a licensed bail bond agency. By paying a non-refundable premium—typically 10% of the total bail amount as mandated by Florida law—a bail bondsman will post the full bond with the court, allowing the defendant to be released while their case is pending.How to Post Bail at Union County Courthouse
There are several ways to post bail in Union 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
Union County Jail
Defendants arrested in Union County are booked into the Union County jail. For detailed jail information including inmate search, visitation hours, and bail schedules: