Clay County Jail
Clay County Jail
The 136-bed Clay County Jail answers inmate information calls at 256-354-7713 24 hours a day.
This is where the county brings people arrested for misdemeanors and felonies for booking and processing. Depending on the charges, some are bonded out or released on their own recognizance, and some are held until their trial is resolved.
Use the inmate search tool to look through the roster of people who have been arrested and are still in custody.
After sentencing, those with less than a year to serve remain at the jail. Those with more than a year to serve are transferred to the Alabama State Prison System or the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
This page offers information on the visitation schedule and rules, depositing funds, mailing letters, inmate phone calls, voicemail, email and text messaging, tablets, bail bonds, and commissary purchases.
Always save the inmate’s jail ID or booking number, which you may need for mail. If it isn’t online, call Clay County Jail at 256-354-7713.
Inmate Services
Other Jails and Prisons
The Clay County Jail makes its roster available online. Search the Official Jail Inmate Roster to find an inmate, review their charges and bond, check visiting eligibility, and view their mugshot, or call the jail at 256-354-7713. To look up court records for a criminal case in Alabama, use the Alacourt ACCESS V2.0 Portal.
Clay County Jail Inmate Search
We’ve answered common questions about finding an inmate in the Clay County Jail, how jail rosters work, and what happens after an offender is arrested and booked in our Frequently Asked Questions and Answers. Still need help? Call 256-354-7713.
The Clay County Jail is licensed for 136 inmates, but the jail is often forced to make room for many more, especially on weekends. Monthly turnover at most city and county jails is at least 40% of the inmate population, 90-day turnover is another 30%, six-month turnover is another 20%, and about 8-9% stay six to twelve months. Inmates held longer than twelve months are usually facing serious charges like rape or murder. Since those cases take time to prepare for trial, offenders arrested in Clay County remain in custody at the Clay County facility much longer.
Every year, Clay County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 2,720 offenders.
The Clay County Sheriff’s Office runs the Clay County Detention Center at 41771 Highway 77 in Ashland. The jail holds people arrested in Ashland, Lineville and the rest of Clay County. Some are waiting on misdemeanor or felony charges, and others are serving county sentences of a year or less. For the jail, call (256) 354-7713 or (256) 354-2176.
A Clay County arrest ends at the detention center’s booking desk, where staff take fingerprints and photos, check records and store personal property. Under Alabama Rule of Criminal Procedure 4.3, the person must go before a judge without unnecessary delay and within 72 hours. Clay County and Coosa County make up the Fortieth Judicial Circuit. Families can follow a case on Alacourt (v2.alacourt.com). Anyone who thinks they have an outstanding warrant should call the sheriff’s office or a lawyer before turning themselves in.
Alabama’s constitution gives most defendants a right to bail. The judge can release someone on personal recognizance or an unsecured appearance bond, or set a secured bond paid in cash, backed by property, or posted through a professional bail bond company. The Rule 7.2 schedule gives recommended ranges, such as $5,000–$30,000 for a Class B felony and $1,000–$7,500 for DUI, but judges can go outside them. Capital charges can be held without bail when the proof is evident or the presumption great. Aniah’s Law (2022) also allows a detention hearing and denial of bail for murder; first-degree kidnapping, rape, sodomy, sexual torture, domestic violence, human trafficking, burglary, arson and robbery; aggravated child abuse and certain offenses against children; and terrorism. Amendment 1, which voters approved in May 2026 with 81.6% support, added solicitation, attempt or conspiracy to commit murder and shooting into an occupied building or vehicle. Call the jail to find out how to post bond; cash, credit cards, money orders and property bonds are accepted.
In-person visits last 30 minutes, and each inmate gets one visit a week with up to two guests. Visiting windows are 9:00–11:00 a.m. and 2:00–4:00 p.m. every day, plus 6:00–8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. You have to be on the inmate’s visitor list and bring a government photo ID. Children need a parent or legal guardian with them and proof of guardianship. Dress professionally: no shorts, sleeveless or low-cut clothing, and no hats or headbands. Video visits through NCIC are free at the lobby kiosk. Remote visits cost about $7.50 for 30 minutes plus a $2.00 fee. Call ahead to schedule.
No public bus serves the jail, so plan to drive. AOC at 41104 AL-77 and Circle K at 83162 AL-9 sell fuel. For food, McDonald’s is at 83690 AL-9 and Pizza Shack is at 114 Court Sq in downtown Ashland.
The sheriff posts a current inmate roster at claycountysheriff.org/inmate_roster.php. Address mail to the inmate’s name, Clay County Detention Center, 41771 Hwy 77, Suite 2, Ashland, AL 36251. Books must be paperback. There is a commissary kiosk in the front lobby, and online deposits and commissary packages go through Inmate Canteen. Phone calls run through NCIC, and you’ll need to set up a friends-and-family account first.
- Clay County Jail: 256-354-7713
- Clay County Sheriff: 256-354-2176
Understanding the booking process at Clay County Jail
After an arrest, individuals are taken to Clay County Jail where they go through booking. This process includes identifying the person, reviewing charges, and determining whether they will be released on their own, eligible for bail, or detained until their court date.
It’s crucial to remain silent after being arrested. Anything said may be used in court, so it’s better to refrain from speaking until consulting with an attorney.
The following steps outline the booking procedure at Clay County Jail:
- Personal identification verification.
- Taking photographs (mugshots).
- Medical and mental health assessment, as well as inquiries about substance use.
- Possibly collecting DNA samples.
- Performing a full-body search.
- Seizing personal belongings for safekeeping.
- Allowing one phone call.
Booking can take from a short hour to longer periods, especially on busy nights or with uncooperative individuals. For inquiries about posting bond for an arrestee, call the facility at 256-354-7713.
Paying bail for someone in custody in Clay County
Once someone is booked at Clay County Jail in Ashland after an arrest, there are several outcomes:
1. They may be released without paying bail, agreeing to show up on a scheduled date.
2. They may remain in custody until their court appearance.
3. They can pay a bail or bond for release. Call 256-354-7713 for bail details.
Bail payments can take several forms.
- The full cash bond is paid at the jail's bonding window or at the clerk of court using cash, a cashier's check or a money order, while many jails add a card option at a lobby kiosk or through an online bond service for a fee; bring the inmate's full name and booking number, and call the jail at 256-354-7713 with questions.
- A licensed bail bond agent in Clay County can help cover bail.
- Many courts take real estate as security for a bond; the property owner must show clear title plus equity at least equal to the bond, often twice it, backed by a deed and a recent tax or appraisal value, and the court that set the bail gives final approval.
For detailed information about the bail process in Clay County, Alabama, see the Clay County Jail Bail FAQ.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessHow Do You Visit an Inmate in the Clay County Jail? What is the Schedule?
Clay County Jail ON-SITE VISITATION SCHEDULE
Clay County Jail
41771 AL-77
Ashland, AL 36251
256-252-4687
On-site public visitation at the Clay County Jail in Ashland is conducted in designated one-hour time slots. All the following visits are on-site and in a non-contact booth. Time slots alternate on a weekly rotation according to inmate gender classification, housing dorm, and general population versus trustee status. All on-site visits must be scheduled in advance by contacting the booking department at 256-252-4687.
| Day | Housing / Group | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| MON | General Population - Male Dorms A & B | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| TUE | Female Housing Units (All Dorms) | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| WED | General Population - Male Dorms C & D | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| FRI | Trustee & Work Release Inmates | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
Remote video visitation and digital messaging are managed through NCIC Inmate Communications. Family and friends must register an account online with NCIC. Remote video calls run daily between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM and again from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM, subject to inmate tablet availability and daily facility lockdowns.
All visitors must be pre-approved on the inmate's official visitor list submitted at booking. Inmates are permitted one 30-minute on-site visit per week, with a limit of 2 adult visitors at the visiting window. Visitors age 18 and older must present an unexpired state or federal photo ID prior to entering the secure lobby.
Modest attire is required. Low-cut shirts, tank tops, sheer garments, and shorts or skirts ending above mid-thigh are prohibited. Handbags, cell phones, keys, and tobacco products must be stored in vehicles or lockers. Minor children under age 18 must be accompanied and directly supervised by an authorized parent or legal guardian at all times.
Clay County Jail uses the services of NCIC for remote video visitation.
In other words, you can visit your inmate in jail by using your home computer, as long as it is equipped with a microphone and camera that supports video.
Ask Clay County Jail whether a video visit made at the jail is free.
Costs
NCIC shows the price of a video visit before you confirm it. Rates are set by the provider and can change.
Ask Clay County Jail whether a video visit made at the jail is free.
How to set up your Video Visit
- Register here.
- Select Clay County Jail
- Select your inmate.
- Choose your date and time.
Your inmate will be notified by the jail staff of the date and time for the visit. Be logged in and connected to NCIC before the scheduled start time.
NCIC Customer Service
Phone - 800-943-2189 or 903-247-0069
Email – info@ncic.com
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Clay County Jail’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 256-354-7713 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessCan I Use My Computer or Phone to Have a Remote Video Visit with an Inmate in the Clay County Jail?
NCIC Video Visitation provides a secure online platform that enables families and loved ones to conduct scheduled face-to-face video visits with incarcerated individuals from home. Using an internet-connected smartphone, tablet, or personal computer equipped with a webcam, visitors can connect directly without traveling to the facility.
Important: Advance Registration and Visitor Clearance Required
Detention centers do not permit unscheduled or unverified video sessions. Correctional facilities require prospective visitors to submit government-issued photo identification and receive administrative clearance before booking an appointment, an approval process that can take up to 48 hours depending on facility staffing. You should verify your visitor approval status with the facility prior to scheduling. If you do not register well in advance, you will miss your loved one's scheduled visiting window for the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Register and Schedule a Video Visit
- Visit account.ncic.com and sign into your account.
- Register your visitor profile and upload a clear photograph of your government-issued ID (driver's license or passport) for facility background review.
- Wait for email notification confirming facility visitor approval.
- Select Video Visitation, choose the detention facility, and select the inmate.
- Browse the available schedule calendar, select an open time slot, and pay the visitation fee using a credit or debit card.
- Log into the website or mobile app 10 minutes prior to the start time on a device with a functioning camera, microphone, and reliable high-speed internet connection.
What the Inmate Needs to Do
The inmate receives a visitation notification on their housing unit video kiosk or terminal. At the appointed time, they log in with their PIN and sit before the terminal. Inmates and visitors must strictly observe jail dress and conduct rules; sessions are monitored by staff and will terminate immediately upon any violation.
Official Provider: NCIC Official Website
Customer Service Telephone: 1-800-943-2189
Support Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
Supported Languages: English and Spanish
Other Services Provided by NCIC Inmate Communications
In addition to Remote Video Visitation, NCIC provides calling and digital messaging services at participating facilities:
- Prepaid Phone Calling Accounts: Prepay for phone calling credits so your loved one can call your telephone directly.
• Learn more on our website: Prepaid Calling Accounts Guide | • Visit official vendor page: NCIC Prepaid Calling - Inmate Messaging Services: Send electronic messages and photos directly to an inmate's housing unit terminal.
• Learn more on our website: Inmate Messaging Guide | • Visit official vendor page: NCIC Messaging
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Clay County Jail’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 256-354-7713 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessHow Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Clay County Jail?
How to deposit money in an inmate's phone account in the Clay County Jail
- To deposit money online go the NCIC website.
- To deposit money over the phone call 800-943-2189.
- To deposit money at the jail use the NCIC Kiosk in the Clay County Jail lobby.
- Call the jail at 256-354-7713 to confirm lobby hours for depositing inmate funds.
For complete information on depositing money in an inmate's account, check out our Inmate Money page.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Clay County Jail’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 256-354-7713 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessHow Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Clay County Jail?
How Does an Inmate Make Phone Calls in Clay County Jail?
To receive phone calls from an inmate in Clay County follow these instructions:
Clay County Jail uses the services of NCIC for inmate phone calling. It is called a ‘friends & family account”.
In order to receive phone calls from your inmate, you need to do the following:
- Register here, or by phone 800-943-2189
- Choose Alabama.
- Choose Clay County Jail
- Select your Inmate.
- Enter the phone number your Inmate will be calling.
- Fund your account.
NOTE:
1. You cannot receive any calls to your phone number from your inmate until both you and your phone number are registered.
2. When you do receive a call, the number you will view on your phone from the incoming call is: 800-943-2189.
3. When allowed by Clay County Jail, families can also leave secure voicemails for inmates to listen to.
Fees
- Adding funds to your account: NCIC's terms cap the fee for an automated payment (web, phone menu or kiosk) at $3.00.
- NCIC shows the current per-minute rate when you set up the account.
- NCIC's terms put the live-agent fee for a phone payment or account set-up at no more than $5.95.
NCIC Customer Service
Phone - 800-943-2189 or 903-247-0069
Email – info@ncic.com
Full list of participating jails.
For all the information regarding phone calls with Clay County inmates; rules, policies, phone calling times, fees, limits and more visit our Inmate Phone Page.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Clay County Jail’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 256-354-7713 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessHow do I Mail an Inmate in the Clay County Jail, and what can I send them?
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Clay County Jail’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 256-354-7713 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessCan I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Clay County Jail, and what can I purchase?
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Clay County Jail’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 256-354-7713 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessHow Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Clay County Jail using an Online Messaging Service?
Clay County Jail uses the services of NCIC for you to deposit funds into your inmate’s account so that you and they can purchase secure email messaging services from this jail’s e-messaging service.
You can deposit money three different ways:
• Deposit online at NCIC.com
• Ask Clay County Jail whether it has an NCIC deposit kiosk and where it is.
• Deposit over the phone 24/7 at 800-943-2189 or 903-247-0069 (Note: NCIC's terms put the live-agent fee for a phone payment or account set-up at no more than $5.95.)
NCIC Customer Service
Phone - 800-943-2189 or 903-247-0069
Email – info@ncic.com
How to Send a Secure Email Message to an Inmate in Clay County
To send a secure email message to an inmate in Clay County Jail follow these steps:
Clay County Jail uses the services of NCIC for you to deposit funds into your inmate's account so that you and they can purchase secure email messaging services from this jail’s e-messaging service.
You can deposit money three different ways:
• Deposit online at NCIC.com
• Ask Clay County Jail whether it has an NCIC deposit kiosk and where it is.
• Deposit over the phone 24/7 at 800-943-2189 or 903-247-0069 (Note: NCIC's terms put the live-agent fee for a phone payment or account set-up at no more than $5.95.)
Email – info@ncic.com
For all information on how to Text/Email an Inmate in Clay County Jail check out our Secure Messaging Guide for Clay County.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Clay County Jail’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 256-354-7713 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessDo Inmates in the Clay County Jail have Access to Tablets or Computers?
Ask Clay County Jail whether NCIC tablets are available to inmates there.
How to Rent a Tablet for an Inmate at the Clay County Jail
Ask Clay County Jail whether NCIC tablets are available to inmates there.
Ask Clay County Jail what the tablets can be used for and whether there is a charge.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Clay County Jail’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 256-354-7713 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessWhat are the other Jails in the Neighboring Counties surrounding Clay County?
Nearby counties
The Clay County Jail serves the following cities and towns of Clay County: Ashland, Delta and Lineville.