Washington County DWI Bail Information

Washington County Bail Process After DUI Arrest

**(dui.guide - Your Guide to Navigating a DUI in Washington County, NC)*Being arrested for DUI in Washington County, North Carolina, can be a frightening experience. One of the first things you'll likely be concerned about is getting out of jail. This guide provides a step-by-step explanation of the bail process in Washington County, helping you understand your options and secure your release as quickly as possible.

Understanding Bail in Washington County

Bail is a financial guarantee that you will appear in court as required. It's essentially a form of collateral held by the court to ensure you don't flee the jurisdiction. If you appear at all scheduled court dates, the bail money (or property) is returned to you (or the person who posted it) at the conclusion of your case. If you fail to appear, you forfeit the bail, and a warrant is issued for your arrest. The amount of bail is determined by a magistrate or judge and is based on factors such as the severity of the charges, your criminal history, and your ties to the community.

Typical Bail Amounts for DUI

While specific bail amounts can vary depending on the details of your case, first-time DUI offenses in North Carolina typically have a bail range of $500 to $2,500. Factors that could increase the bail amount include a high BAC (Blood Alcohol Content), prior DUI convictions, or if there were aggravating circumstances, such as an accident or injury.

How to Post Bail in Washington County

Several options are available for posting bail in Washington County. The best option for you will depend on your financial situation and the amount of bail set.

Option 1: cash bail

Cash bail involves paying the full bail amount directly to the Washington County Detention facility.

• How it works: You (or someone on your behalf) pays the full bail amount in cash.
• Refund: After your case concludes, and if you've attended all required court appearances, approximately 90% of the cash bail will be returned to the person who posted it. The court typically retains a small percentage for administrative fees.
• Where to pay: Bail can be paid at the Washington County Detention, located at 120 Adams St # 3, Plymouth, NC 27962.
• Payment methods: It is advisable to contact the Washington County Detention at (252) 793-1107 to confirm acceptable payment methods, but typically, cash is accepted. Certified checks or money orders may also be accepted, but personal checks are generally not.

Option 2: bail bondsman

Using a bail bondsman is a common method, especially when you cannot afford to pay the full bail amount upfront.

• How it works: You pay a non-refundable fee to a licensed bail bondsman, typically 10-15% of the total bail amount. The bondsman then posts the full bail amount with the court.
• Fee: The fee paid to the bail bondsman is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your case.
• What you'll need: To secure a bond, you will typically need to provide the bondsman with:
• A valid photo ID.
• Information about the arrest, including the charges and bail amount.
• Collateral, such as a car title, jewelry, or real estate, to secure the bond. The amount of collateral required depends on the bail amount and the bondsman's assessment of your risk.
• A co-signer, also known as an indemnitor, who agrees to be responsible for ensuring you appear in court. The co-signer must have good credit and a stable income.
• Finding a licensed bondsman: Directory listings of licensed bail bondsmen who service the Washington County area are available on this site.

Option 3: property bond

A property bond involves using real estate as collateral to secure your release.

• How it works: You pledge property as security instead of cash.
• Value: The property must be worth significantly more than the bail amount, typically 150-200% of the bail. This ensures the court can recover the full bail amount if you fail to appear.
• Process: The process of securing a property bond is more complex and time-consuming than cash bail or a bail bond. It involves:
• Providing documentation of ownership, such as a deed.
• Obtaining an appraisal to determine the property's value.
• Having the property liened by the court.
• Timeline: Property bonds take longer to process due to the required appraisals and legal paperwork.

Option 4: personal recognizance (pr bond)

A Personal Recognizance (PR) bond allows you to be released from custody without paying bail. Instead, you sign a written promise to appear in court.

• How it works: You are released on your own recognizance, based on your promise to appear.
• Eligibility: PR bonds are typically granted to first-time offenders with strong ties to the community and a low risk of flight. Factors considered include your employment history, residency, and family connections.
• Washington County-specific eligibility: The decision to grant a PR bond is at the discretion of the magistrate or judge.

Timeline: How Long Until Release?

The time it takes to be released from the Washington County Detention after posting bail can vary.

• Typical processing time: The average processing time is 2-4 hours after bail is posted. This time is needed for paperwork, verification of funds (especially with cash bail), and release procedures.
• Best times to post bail: Posting bail during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM) can expedite the process, as more staff are available to handle the paperwork.
• What can delay release: Several factors can delay your release, including:
• High jail population.
• Staff shortages.
• Complications with verifying funds.
• Outstanding warrants from other jurisdictions.

What Happens After Posting Bail

After posting bail, you are released from custody subject to certain conditions.

• Conditions of release: Common conditions of release include:
• Attending all scheduled court appearances.
• Not committing any new crimes.
• Avoiding contact with the alleged victim (if applicable).
• Abstaining from alcohol or drug use.
• Submitting to drug testing.
• Surrendering your passport.
• When you must appear in court: Your release paperwork will specify the date, time, and location of your next court appearance. It is crucial to mark this date on your calendar and make arrangements to attend.
• What happens if you miss court: If you fail to appear in court as required, the following can happen:
• A warrant will be issued for your arrest.
• You will forfeit the bail money.
• The bail bondsman (if used) will attempt to locate you and bring you back to court.
• You may face additional charges for failure to appear.

Special Considerations in Washington County

The Washington County Sheriff's Office is located at 120 Adams St, Plymouth, NC 27962, and their phone number is (252) 793-2422. Contacting them directly may provide clarification on specific bail procedures. The Washington County Detention facility is located at 120 Adams St # 3, Plymouth, NC 27962, and their main phone number is (252) 793-1107.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Where do I go to post bail in Washington County? You can post cash bail at the Washington County Detention, located at 120 Adams St # 3, Plymouth, NC 27962. For bail bonds, you will need to contact a licensed bail bondsman.

2How long will it take to be released after bail is posted at the Washington County Detention? The release process typically takes 2-4 hours after bail is posted, depending on staffing and other factors.

3What happens to the bail money after my case is over in Washington County? If you attend all required court appearances, approximately 90% of the cash bail will be returned to the person who posted it after your case concludes. The court retains a small percentage for administrative fees. The fee paid to a bail bondsman is non-refundable.

Browse licensed bail bondsmen serving Washington County in our bail bond directory.