Bond & Jail Information in Delaware County, Ohio
In this article
If someone is arrested for OVI or another charge in Delaware County, this guide explains how bail works in Ohio and how to post bond to secure a release.
Visual summaries and timelines are simplified. Use these sources to confirm current law and details.
- Ohio Revised Code § 2937.222 (Bail decisions)primary
- Ohio Crim.R. 46 (Bail)primary
- Ohio Constitution, Article I, Section 9 (Bail)primary
- Delaware County Sheriff’s Office: Inmates (bond + release processing notes)primary
- Delaware County Municipal Court (online portal)primary
- Delaware County Clerk of Courts (Bail bond agents)primary
Delaware County residents often ask what happens after an arrest and how bond is set. This guide explains the difference between bail and bond, how Ohio courts decide release conditions, and where to post bond in Delaware County.
Bail vs bond
Bail is the amount or conditions the court sets to ensure the person returns to court. Bond is the method used to post bail (cash, recognizance, or surety). Ohio courts evaluate release under ORC 2937.222, which lists factors such as the alleged offense, prior record, community ties, and risk to public safety.
What happens after arrest and booking
After an arrest, the person is booked at the jail. Booking usually includes identification, fingerprints, and a brief health screening. The case is then routed to the appropriate court for bond determination and initial hearing scheduling.
How judges decide release conditions
Courts consider multiple factors, including:
- seriousness of the charge
- prior record and pending cases
- community ties and employment
- risk to alleged victims or witnesses
- compliance history in prior cases
The decision can include financial bail, non-financial conditions, or detention in serious cases.
Common types of bond in Ohio
Recognizance bond (ROR)
A recognizance bond releases someone on a promise to appear. No money is posted, but failure to appear can lead to a warrant and additional charges.
Cash or 10% bond
In many cases, the court allows a 10% deposit of the bond amount with the clerk. The remaining amount is typically secured by the court and may be refunded if all court appearances are completed (subject to court rules and fees).
Surety bond
A surety bond uses a licensed bond agent. The bondsman charges a fee that is typically non-refundable. This option is often used when the full cash deposit is not feasible.
Bond conditions beyond money
Courts can impose non-financial conditions, such as no-contact orders, travel limits, or alcohol monitoring. These conditions can affect release timing and daily life, so it is important to review them carefully.
Delaware County: where to post bond
The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office does not accept bond payments at the jail. Bond is posted through the Delaware County Municipal Court at 70 N. Union Street, Delaware, OH 43015. After payment, the court sends release paperwork to the jail. Release can take time after paperwork is received.
Step-by-step: posting bond for a loved one
- Confirm bond amount and type with the Municipal Court clerk.
- Choose payment method (cash deposit, surety bond, or recognizance if approved).
- Post bond at the Municipal Court with valid ID and accepted payment.
- Wait for release processing once the jail receives court paperwork.
Release timing and pickup
Release timing varies based on jail processing and court paperwork. If you plan to pick someone up, bring ID and be prepared for a waiting period after the release order is transmitted.
Bond modification or review
In some cases, counsel can request a bond modification or review hearing. The request may focus on new information, community ties, or changes in risk factors.
What varies by county and court
Even within Ohio, bond procedures can vary by:
- court schedules and staffing
- local bond policies
- charge type and record history
- court-specific payment methods
Costs and practical considerations
Bond decisions are separate from eventual fines or penalties. When using a surety bond, the fee is usually not refundable. When using a cash deposit, refund rules are set by the court and can include fees or administrative deductions.
Cost Categories (Varies)
Depends on the specific charge(s) and court
Depends on complexity and stage of the case
If ordered or recommended
Insurance impacts, monitoring, travel, and time off work
What to bring and ask
When posting bond, bring a valid ID and confirm accepted payment methods. Consider asking:
- what payment forms are accepted today
- when paperwork will be sent to the jail
- how to confirm release status
Important local contact information
- Delaware County Municipal Court Clerk: 70 N. Union St., Delaware, OH 43015 · (740) 203-1550
- Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Jail: 844 U.S. Rt. 42 N., Delaware, OH 43015 · (740) 833-2840
After release
After release, the person should keep all paperwork and note future court dates carefully. Missing a hearing can trigger a warrant, so calendar notices matter now.
Conclusion
Bond decisions are time-sensitive and local-process driven. Confirm the bond type, follow the court’s payment instructions, and ask about release timelines. If the case is complex or high-risk, speak with counsel about bond modification options.
This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified Ohio attorney about your situation.
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