If someone you care about has been arrested, understanding how to post bail in King County is essential. Whether the arrest happened in Seattle, Kent, or another area within the county, the process can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through each step clearly so you know what to expect and how to help.
What Is Bail?
Bail is a financial guarantee that a person will return to court after being released from jail. If the person appears for all scheduled court dates, the court may refund the bail. If they miss court, the bail may be forfeited and a warrant issued for their arrest.
Where Do You Post Bail in King County?
You can post bail in person at the following King County jail locations:
📍 King County Correctional Facility (Seattle)
Location: 500 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
Hours: Open 24/7
Phone: (206) 296-1234
📍 Maleng Regional Justice Center (Kent)
Location: 620 W James St, Kent, WA 98032
Hours: Open 24/7
Phone: (206) 205-2501
Make sure to call the jail ahead of time to confirm that the person is eligible for release and verify the bail amount.
What Are the Bail Payment Options?
There are several ways to post bail in King County:
- Cash Bail: Pay the full amount in cash, cashier’s check, or money order.
- Credit Card: Accepted at jail kiosks but may include processing fees.
- Bail Bond: Use a licensed bail bond company. You usually pay 10% of the total bail as a non-refundable fee.
Each option has different risks and timelines. Cash bail is faster, while bail bonds may take longer and involve co-signers.
How Do You Find Out the Bail Amount?
You can look up the bail amount using the King County Jail Inmate Lookup Tool or by calling the jail directly. In many cases, the person will appear before a judge within 24–48 hours for a bail hearing, where the amount may be set or adjusted.
What Happens After Bail Is Posted?
Once bail is paid, jail staff begin the release process. This can take 1 to 8 hours depending on the jail’s workload. The released person must follow all court conditions and show up for every scheduled appearance.
If they fail to appear, the bail can be forfeited, and you may be liable for the full amount if you used a bail bond company.
Can Bail Be Reduced or Removed?
In some cases, an attorney can ask the court to lower bail or release the person without bail on personal recognizance (PR). Judges consider:
- The person’s criminal history
- Flight risk
- Public safety
- Ties to the community
If bail seems excessive or unfair, contact a defense lawyer right away.
Contact Blanford Law for Help with Bail and Criminal Charges
Posting bail is just the first step. If your loved one has been arrested, you need a legal strategy to protect their future. At Blanford Law, we help clients and their families navigate the King County bail process and defend against criminal charges in Seattle, Kent, and surrounding areas.
📧 Email: ken@blanfordlaw.com
📞 Call: 253-720-9304
We’re here to help — 24/7 if necessary.
