Getting a phone call that someone you love was arrested in Wichita is hard. It is even harder when you live hundreds of miles away. The good news is that you usually do not need to travel to Kansas to help. Most of the bail bond process can be handled by phone, text, and email.
Here is a step by step guide for families who need to bail someone out of Sedgwick County Jail from out of state.
Step 1: Confirm Where They Are Being Held
Most adults arrested in Wichita and Sedgwick County are taken to the Sedgwick County Adult Detention Facility at 141 W Elm in downtown Wichita. Before you do anything else, confirm they are there and find out the charges and bond amount. You can start with our inmate search page, or simply call us with their full name and date of birth. We can look it up for you.
Step 2: Call a Local Wichita Bail Bondsman
Working with a local bondsman matters. A local company knows the Sedgwick County jail, how bonds are posted there, and how long release usually takes. At Eastep Bail Bonds we answer the phone 24 hours a day, so you can reach us no matter what time zone you are in.
Step 3: Complete the Paperwork Remotely
In many cases, the bail bond paperwork can be sent to you electronically. You review it, sign it on your phone or computer, and send it back. You will likely need:
- A clear photo of your government issued ID
- Your current address and phone number
- Basic job or income information
- Contact information for a few references
Step 4: Pay the Premium
The premium is the fee for the bail bond service. Out of state families can usually pay by credit or debit card over the phone. We also offer payment plans for those who qualify. Always ask for a receipt and a copy of your agreement.
Step 5: We Post the Bond and the Jail Processes the Release
Once everything is signed and paid, your bondsman posts the bond at the jail. The jail then processes the release. Release time depends on how busy the jail is, so there may still be a wait. We will keep you updated.
Planning for Pickup
Since you are not in town, think ahead about how your loved one will get home or where they will stay. Consider:
- A local friend or relative who can pick them up
- A rideshare or taxi arranged ahead of time
- Making sure they have a charged phone and a way to reach you
Can the Defendant Leave Kansas After Release?
This is a very common question. The answer depends on the conditions of release set by the court and the terms of the bail bond. Some defendants are allowed to travel, and some are not. The defendant must also come back for every court date. Before anyone leaves the state, check with the defendant’s attorney and the bondsman. Leaving without permission can put the bond at risk.
Staying Involved From a Distance
As a cosigner, you share responsibility for making sure the defendant goes to court. From out of state you can still help:
- Write down every court date and send reminders
- Check the case status online through the Kansas District Court Public Access Portal
- Keep in regular contact with the defendant and the bondsman
Putting Money on Their Account While They Wait
If there is a delay before release, you may want to add money for phone calls or commissary. Sedgwick County uses JailATM for account deposits and ICSolutions for inmate phone calls, according to the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office. Check the Sheriff’s website for current details, since vendors can change.
You Do Not Have to Figure This Out Alone
Eastep Bail Bonds helps families from all over the country get their loved ones out of Sedgwick County Jail. One phone call gets things moving, and we will guide you through every step from wherever you are.
Eastep Bail Bonds is a bail bond company. We are not attorneys and we do not give legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact Warrior Lawyers.
Call Eastep Bail Bonds 24/7 at (316) 391-3723.
