Fairfield County Court of Common Pleas Bail Bonds & Bond Information

After arraignment at Fairfield County Court of Common Pleas

In Fairfield County, a defendant's first court appearance and initial bond determination for both misdemeanor and felony charges generally take place in the Fairfield County Municipal Court (136 W. Main Street, Lancaster; 740-687-6621), which conducts all stages of misdemeanor and traffic cases including trial and sentencing. For felonies, the Municipal Court handles the initial appearance, sets the first bond, and holds a preliminary hearing; the felony case is then bound over to the Fairfield County Court of Common Pleas after a preliminary hearing finding of probable cause or a grand jury indictment. The Common Pleas Court (General Division) then conducts arraignment on the indictment and all further felony proceedings. The judge sets or reviews bond under Ohio Criminal Rule 46, choosing among personal recognizance, unsecured or 10% cash-deposit bonds, full cash bonds, or surety bonds, plus any non-financial release conditions, based on the seriousness of the offense, the defendant's criminal history and ties to the community, risk of flight, and public safety. Bond may be modified at later hearings. Verify case-specific details with the Clerk of Courts at 740-652-7360.