Florida First Appearance Court Hearings: Schedules & Guide
Office walk-in hours Mon–Fri 9–5 · Phones answered 24/7
What Is a First Appearance Hearing in Florida?
First Appearance is the defendant’s first court hearing after arrest. The judge reviews the charges and decides whether to set a bond, change a bond, or hold the person. Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.130 requires that hearing within 24 hours of arrest. That is the court’s rule, not a Shamrock time estimate.
When Do First Appearance Hearings Happen?
Each county sets its own courtroom time. Weekday and weekend times are on the schedule list for that county. If a time is not on the list, call 239-332-2245 and we will check the clerk’s calendar with you. Do not guess a time from another county.
What Judges Consider When Setting Bail
Judges look at the charges, ties to the community, history of court appearances, and safety. Shamrock does not set the bond amount. We explain a bond the court has already set.
How to Post Bond After the Hearing
If the judge sets a bond, call 239-332-2245 or text 239-955-0178. Spanish: 727-295-2245. We confirm the amount with the jail, then walk through the premium and the indemnity agreement. A licensed agent posts the bond after that paperwork and payment are in place.