Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026
Quick Answer: Juveniles (under 18) in Florida are not processed through the bail system like adults. Instead, they go through the juvenile justice system where a Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC) determines whether they are released to parents or detained until a hearing.
Juvenile Arrest Process in Florida
- Arrest — Minor is taken to a Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC), not an adult jail
- Screening — The JAC assesses the minor's risk level and home situation
- Decision — JAC recommends release to parents/guardian OR secure detention
- Detention hearing — If detained, a hearing must occur within 24 hours
- Adjudicatory hearing — The juvenile equivalent of a trial
When Can Juveniles Be Charged as Adults?
Under Florida Statute 985.557, juveniles ages 14-17 can be charged as adults for:
- Murder or attempted murder
- Sexual battery
- Armed robbery or carjacking
- Aggravated battery causing great bodily harm
- Drug trafficking
When charged as an adult, juveniles enter the adult bail system and are subject to standard bail procedures.
What Parents Should Do
- Go to the JAC immediately — Your presence increases the chance of release
- Bring identification — Both yours and the child's
- Contact an attorney — Juvenile defense attorneys can intervene at the detention hearing
- If charged as adult — Call QuickBail at (941) 477-6888 for bail assistance
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