Clayton County DUI Bail Guide
Bail amounts, how bonds work, and what to expect when getting released from Clayton County jail in Jonesboro.
Last verified: January 6, 2026
DUI Bail Amounts
| Offense | Bail |
|---|---|
| 1st Offense DUI | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| 2nd Offense (within 10 yrs) | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| 3rd+ Offense (Felony) | $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 Clayton County Jail.
FAQ
The Harold R. Banke Justice Center is the operational heart of Clayton County's legal system, located at 9151 Tara Boulevard, Jonesboro, GA. This is where you'll find the intake facilities for the Clayton County Sheriff's Office and is a central point for DUI case processing.
DUI Bail Amounts in Clayton County
Clayton County does not rely heavily on pre-set bond schedules for DUI offenses. Instead, judicial discretion plays a significant role, especially in cases involving repeat offenses or aggravating factors. However, if a bond is set for a first offense DUI, it typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,500. This amount generally encompasses the base fine, statutory surcharges, and court costs.
Aggravating circumstances like a high BAC (.15 or greater), refusal to submit to testing, or involvement in an accident can lead to a higher bond amount and additional conditions, such as a "do not drive" order or pretrial supervision.
Where to Post Bail
Defendants are processed at the Harold R. Banke Justice Center located at 9157 Tara Boulevard, Jonesboro, GA 30236. The booking phone number is (770) 477-4479. The Banke Center houses the Sheriff’s Office and Jail.
Bail Bond Options
While cash bonds are an option, most individuals utilize surety bonds obtained through a bail bonding company. Clayton County does not appear to widely offer PR (Personal Recognizance) bonds for DUI offenses.
Release Timeline
The Harold R. Banke Justice Center processes a high volume of cases, which can lead to delays. Though First Appearance Hearings must occur within 48 hours (for warrantless arrests) or 72 hours (for warranted arrests), they often happen the morning following the arrest via video link from the jail. Administrative delays within the court clerk's office can ripple into jail release processing times, potentially extending the overall release time.
Important Considerations for Vehicle Impound After a DUI Arrest
Following a DUI arrest, your vehicle is likely impounded. Unlike some jurisdictions with streamlined release procedures, Clayton County requires a "Two-Stop" system. You must first obtain a Vehicle Release Form from the Clayton County Police Department (CCPD) Records Unit before going to the towing company.
The CCPD Records Unit is located at 7911 N. McDonough Street, Jonesboro, GA 30236. Their operational hours are Monday – Wednesday: 8:00 AM to 4:45 PM, Thursday – Friday: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and closed on weekends and holidays. This creates a "blackout period" for vehicle recovery, meaning if you're arrested on a Friday evening, you cannot obtain a release form until Monday morning, incurring additional storage fees.
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