When someone is arrested in Raleigh, it’s normal to feel rushed and unsure what to do next. This guide explains the bail bond process, what information to have ready, and what to expect during release at the Wake County Detention Center.
When someone is arrested in Raleigh, it’s normal to feel rushed and unsure what to do next. This guide explains the bail bond process, what information to have ready, and what to expect during release at the Wake County Detention Center.
If you have the bond amount, we can start immediately. If you do not have it yet, you can still call and we will guide you on what to do next.
Have the defendant’s full name, date of birth, and confirm they are being held at the Wake County Detention Center.
You can start by phone or online. Online paperwork with e-signature can help reduce delays and keep the process simple.
Booking process
The person is booked into the detention center and a bond amount is set. This may take longer when the jail is busy.
Call a bail agent
Call with the bond amount, the defendant’s full name, and date of birth. If you do not have the bond amount yet, call anyway.
Complete Paperwork
Paperwork can be completed by phone and e-signature in many cases. This helps you start faster without needing to travel.
Bond posted
Once paperwork is complete, the bond is posted at the detention center so release processing can begin.
Release processing
After the bond is posted, the detention center completes internal release processing. Timing depends on staffing and intake volume.
• High intake volume during nights or weekends
• Shift changes and staffing levels
• Medical screening and classification checks
• Paperwork review and verification
• Additional holds or other agency requirements
• Have the correct full name and date of birth
• Confirm the bond amount if possible
• Complete paperwork promptly
• Stay available by phone in case questions come up

Bail is usually set after booking and an initial review of the charge and history. Timing can vary, so if you do not have the bond amount yet, call and we can guide you on the next step.
Defendant full name, date of birth, bond amount if available, and where they are being held. You will also need your name and phone number as the person helping start the process.
Release time depends on detention center operations, staffing, and intake volume. Many releases happen within a few hours, but delays can happen on busy nights, weekends, or when additional checks are required.
Yes. In many cases you can complete paperwork online using e-signature, which helps you start faster without traveling.
Call anyway. We can tell you what to do next, what information to gather, and how to move forward while you are waiting on the bond amount.
High intake volume, shift changes, medical screening, paperwork review, and additional holds or requirements can slow down release processing.