Putnam County Court of Common Pleas Bail Bonds & Bond Information

After arraignment at Putnam County Court of Common Pleas

In Putnam County, Ohio, a defendant's first court appearance after arrest is usually before the Putnam County Municipal Court (245 E. Main St., Suite 301, Ottawa, OH 45875), which handles misdemeanors, traffic offenses, and the initial appearance/arraignment on felony complaints. At arraignment the judge informs the defendant of the charges and sets bond under Ohio Criminal Rule 46, choosing among own-recognizance, unsecured appearance, cash, or surety (bail bond) options based on the offense, flight risk, and public safety. For felonies, the Municipal Court conducts the initial bond setting and a preliminary hearing; the case is then bound over to the Putnam County Court of Common Pleas (245 E. Main St., Ottawa, OH 45875; 419-523-3110) after the preliminary hearing or upon grand jury indictment. The Common Pleas judge presides over felony arraignment in that court, where bond may be reviewed, continued, or modified, and ultimately handles pleas, trial, and sentencing. Confirm hearing dates and bond status through the Clerk of Courts or the online docket.