A Loved One Was Arrested in Brevard County: First Steps for Families
Short answer: When a loved one is arrested in Brevard County, they are typically taken to the Brevard County Jail Complex, where you can look up their booking information through the Brevard County Sheriff's Office. Many charges have a bond schedule; others require first appearance before a judge, usually within 24 hours. Avoid discussing the case on recorded jail calls, and contact a defense lawyer quickly.
A phone call saying someone you love has been arrested is frightening. The system has its own pace and vocabulary, and the first few hours are when families feel most helpless. Here is a practical guide.
Step by step
- Find them. Arrests in Brevard County are typically booked into the Brevard County Jail Complex. The Sheriff's Office provides an online inmate search showing charges and, when set, bond amounts.
- Learn the charges. The booking record lists the charges. Some offenses have a standard bond; others require a judge to set conditions at first appearance.
- First appearance. Usually within 24 hours, a judge reviews probable cause and sets bond and release conditions.
- Posting bond. Bond can generally be posted in full with the jail or through a licensed bail bond agent, who charges a non-refundable fee.
- Release and next court date. After release, follow every condition and attend every court date.
Calls are recorded: Calls from the jail are recorded and can be used as evidence. Do not discuss what happened, the charges or anything about the case on a jail call or in jail messages.
How families can help
- Gather their ID, medication information and a list of important contacts
- Contact their employer, if appropriate, to explain an absence without discussing details
- Arrange care for children or pets
- Keep a record of the booking number, charges and court dates
- Contact a criminal defense lawyer as early as possible
What to avoid
Helpful
- Calm, short calls focused on logistics
- Encouraging them to wait for a lawyer before talking
- Keeping paperwork organized
Harmful
- Asking what happened on a recorded line
- Contacting alleged victims or witnesses
- Posting about the arrest online
The most helpful thing a family can do in the first day is often the hardest: say less.
Visiting and attorney visits
Family visitation at the jail follows the Sheriff's Office rules and schedule. Attorney visits are separate and confidential. Heather Harris Law offers a Request a Jail Visit option so a family member can arrange a confidential attorney visit with someone who is in custody.
Talk with a lawyer
A defense lawyer can appear at or after first appearance, address bond and conditions, and begin protecting your loved one's rights immediately. Heather Harris Law handles criminal defense throughout Brevard County. See also what to do when the police want to talk.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out if someone is in jail in Brevard County?
The Brevard County Sheriff's Office provides an online inmate search with booking information, charges and bond details when available.
How soon will they see a judge?
Usually within 24 hours of arrest, at first appearance, unless they are released earlier on a scheduled bond.
Can I talk to them about the case on the jail phone?
You should not. Jail calls are recorded and can be used as evidence. Leave case discussions to their attorney.
Heather Harris Law, 650 South Courtenay Parkway, Suite 101, Merritt Island, FL 32952. Call (321) 452-7055. Heather Harris spent thirteen years as an Assistant State Attorney before opening her practice and is licensed in Florida and Alabama. This article is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.