BOND INFORMATION

Within the Tennessee court system, every individual suspected of committing a criminal offense has the right to post bail. All defendants are entitled to receive a bond, as they are innocent until proven guilty under the law. The exceptions involve those who are a flight risk, fugitives or repeat offenders, or those facing the death penalty.

After an arrest for any criminal charge, a defendant is entitled to a bail hearing. Defendants who can obtain a bail amount and post bond are released. Defendants who are not approved for bail or can’t meet the bail requirements will stay in jail until their case can be heard.

The Tennessee Department of Insurance issues licenses for bail bond agencies within the state and requires them to adhere to specific rules and regulations. Knox County Local Bonding Company Rules.

Bond Payment Locations

1. Bonding Company – The Tennessee statute outlines the maximum amount of funds that the bonding company may charge clients.
   • TN Resident – 10% of the set bond amount + $37.00 Fee
   • Non-TN Resident – 15% of the set bond amount + $37.00 Fee
2. Jail – The full amount of the bond may be paid by cash only at the Knox County Jail and Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility.
3. Criminal Court Clerk’s Office - The full amount of the bond may be paid by cash, cashier’s check, or money order at the Clerk’s Cashier Counter.

*NOTE:

• Full Cash bond payments to Knox County Jail, Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility, or the Criminal Court Clerk’s Office may be applied toward court costs. This does not apply to payments made through a Bond Company.
• Property can be used as a bond, if applicable. For more information, contact the Criminal Court Clerk’s office.