4th Circuit Court of Jackson County Bail Bonds & Bond Information

After arraignment at 4th Circuit Court of Jackson County

In Jackson County, criminal proceedings begin in the 12th District Court, where every adult charged with a crime is arraigned. At arraignment, the defendant appears before a judge or magistrate, is advised of the charges and their legal rights, and a judge sets bond; the defendant may then be released on bond. Misdemeanor cases generally stay in the 12th District Court. For felony charges, the 12th District Court holds a preliminary examination to determine whether there is probable cause that a felony was committed and that the defendant committed it. If probable cause is established, the case is bound over to the 4th Circuit Court of Jackson County, a trial court of general jurisdiction that handles felony trials. A judge sets or reviews bond based on the charge, the defendant's history, and the risk of flight or danger to the community, and may impose bond conditions. Because each case and circumstance is unique, defendants should consult an attorney; the Jackson County Public Defender's Office can be reached at 517-768-6842 prior to arraignment.