Chatham County DUI Bail Guide
Bail amounts, how bonds work, and what to expect when getting released from Chatham County jail in Savannah.
Last verified: April 1, 2026
DUI Bail Amounts
| Offense | Bail |
|---|---|
| 1st Offense DUI | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| 2nd Offense (within 10 yrs) | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| 3rd+ Offense (within 10 yrs) | $10,000 - $25,000+ |
| High BAC (0.15+) | $3,000 - $7,500 |
| With Child Passenger | $10,000+ |
Amounts vary by criminal history, BAC level, and circumstances. Bondsman fee: 10-15% (non-refundable). O.C.G.A. 40-6-391 governs DUI offenses.
Where to Post Bail
How Bail Bonds Work
The Process
Contact a bondsman
Available 24/7
Pay 10-15% fee
Non-refundable
Bondsman posts bail
They guarantee the court
You're released
Must attend all court dates
Co-Signer Warning
If you co-sign, you are legally responsible if the defendant fails to appear.
- 100% liable for full bail amount
- Collateral (house, car) can be seized
- Cannot cancel once signed
Release Timeline
Booking
2-8 hrsFingerprints, photos, background check
Arraignment
24-48 hrsJudge sets bail amount
Bail Posted
1-4 hrsPaperwork signed, fee paid
Release
2-6 hrsProperty returned
Booking
2-8 hours
Fingerprints, photos, background check
Arraignment
24-48 hours
Judge sets bail amount
Bail Posted
1-4 hours
Paperwork signed
Release
2-6 hours
Property returned
Total: 12-48 Hours
Weekends and holidays take longer at Chatham County Detention Center.
FAQ
Chatham County Bail Process After DUI Arrest
Being arrested for DUI in Chatham County, Georgia, can be a stressful and confusing experience. Understanding the bail process is crucial to securing your release from jail and beginning to address the charges against you. Bail is essentially a financial guarantee that you will appear in court as required. In Chatham County, several options exist for posting bail, each with its own requirements and implications. This guide will walk you through the process, providing practical information to help you navigate this challenging time.
Typical Bail Amounts for DUI
While bail amounts can vary based on the specifics of your case, first-time DUI offenses in Georgia typically have a set bond amount. Factors that can influence the bail amount include prior criminal history, the presence of aggravating circumstances (such as a high blood alcohol content, an accident, or a child in the vehicle), and the judge's discretion.
How to Post Bail in Chatham County
The Chatham County Detention Center (CCDC) offers several methods for posting bail. Understanding these options can help you choose the most suitable approach for your situation.
Option 1: Cash Bail
- How it Works: Cash bail involves paying the full bail amount directly to the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office.
- Refund: According to the Chatham County Sheriff's Office, the cash bond is refundable upon the case closing, less a $20 fee, provided all court appearances are met.
- Where to Pay: Payments can be made at the Chatham County Detention Center, located at 1050 Carl Griffin Dr, Savannah, GA 31405.
- Payment Methods: The CCDC accepts cash, Visa, and MasterCard. Credit card transactions are subject to a 10% surcharge. Company cards are not accepted.
- Requirements: You must present a valid government-issued photo ID to post cash bail.
Option 2: Bail Bondsman
- How it Works: A bail bondsman is a licensed professional who posts the full bail amount on your behalf in exchange for a non-refundable fee.
- Fee: This fee is typically 12-15% of the total bail amount.
- Collateral & Co-Signer: The bondsman may require collateral (such as property or valuable assets) and/or a co-signer to guarantee your appearance in court.
- Finding a Bondsman: To find a licensed bail bondsman near the Chatham County jail, consult directory listings.
Option 3: Property Bond
- How it Works: A property bond uses real estate as collateral to secure your release.
- Requirements: The property must be located in Chatham County, have a clear title, and be worth significantly more than the bail amount (typically 150-200%). A title search, often requiring an attorney, is also necessary.
- Processing Time: Property bonds generally take longer to process than cash or surety bonds due to the required legal documentation and valuation.
Option 4: Personal Recognizance (PR Bond)
- How it Works: A PR bond allows you to be released on your own recognizance, meaning you promise to appear in court without posting any bail.
- Eligibility: PR bonds are typically reserved for first-time offenders with strong ties to the community and a low perceived risk of flight.
- County-Specific Eligibility: Eligibility for a PR bond in Chatham County is determined by the court based on your individual circumstances.
Timeline: How Long Until Release?
The time it takes to be released from the Chatham County Detention Center after posting bail can vary.
- Typical Processing Time: Once bail is posted, processing can take several hours.
- Best Times to Post Bail: According to research data, the CCDC operates on 12-hour shifts. Shift changes occur around 6:00 a.m. - 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Posting bail near these shift changes may result in delays.
- Potential Delays: Delays can occur due to high intake volume, administrative backlogs, or complications with payment processing.
What Happens After Posting Bail
After posting bail and being released from the Chatham County Detention Center, you must adhere to specific conditions.
- Conditions of Release: These conditions may include abstaining from alcohol and drugs, avoiding contact with certain individuals, and remaining within Chatham County.
- Court Appearance: You will be given a court date and time. It is crucial to appear in court as scheduled.
- Consequences of Missing Court: Failure to appear in court can result in the forfeiture of your bail, the issuance of a warrant for your arrest, and additional criminal charges.
Special Considerations in Chatham County
The Chatham County Detention Center and court system have specific procedures that can impact the bail process.
- Bonding Methods and Surcharges: The Chatham County Sheriff's Office approves six bonding methods, each with its own fee or surcharge: cash bond (face value + $20 fee), bonding company (12-15% premium), credit card (10% surcharge), property bond (lien + title search), online (platform fees via www.cashbondonline.com), and out of county (variable, requires approval from the Sheriff of the originating county).
- The "Shift Change" Blackout: The CCDC operates on 12-hour shifts. During the handover periods (typically 6:00 a.m. - 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.), administrative processing often slows, potentially delaying release.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where do I go to post bail for someone arrested for DUI in Chatham County? A: You can post bail at the Chatham County Detention Center, located at 1050 Carl Griffin Dr, Savannah, GA 31405.
Q: What happens to the cash bond I post if the DUI charges are dropped? A: According to the Chatham County Sheriff's Office, the cash bond is refundable upon the case closing, less a $20 fee, provided all court appearances are met.
Q: If I can't afford bail, will I stay in jail until my court date? A: If you cannot afford bail, you will remain in custody until your court date unless the judge grants a Personal Recognizance (PR) bond or modifies the bail amount at a bond hearing. Contact a DUI attorney to explore these options.
Browse licensed bail bondsmen serving Chatham County in our bail bond directory.
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