Miner County Jail Inmate Bail & Bonds
How bail works in Miner County
Miner County is a farming county northwest of Sioux Falls. Miner County has no jail, so most people are held at the Lake County Jail. Inmate search: Miner County Inmate Search.
1. Where are people from Miner County jailed?
The quickest check is the Miner County Inmate Search.
There is no county jail here. The usual choice is the Lake County Jail, 200 E. Center Street, Madison, SD 57042 (605-256-5044).
Some go to the Davison, Beadle, or Charles Mix County jails instead.
Expect booking and bond at the host jail.
Local questions can go to the Miner County Sheriff's Office at 605-772-4501.
Tips for the call:
- Share the person's legal name.
- Give their date of birth.
- Ask if bond has been set.
Charge details may not be shared.
2. Where is the courthouse in Miner County?
Court filings go to 401 N. Main, Howard, SD 57349-0265 (605-772-4612).
Bond deposits are made with the clerk (SDCL §23A-43-3(4)).
Ask which payment forms they accept.
3. How does magistrate court work in Miner County?
The 3rd Judicial Circuit runs magistrate court here (SDCL §16-12B-11). It tries misdemeanors and ordinance cases (SDCL §16-12B-11). A felony moves on to the Miner County circuit court (SDCL §23A-4-3).
Find contacts in the UJS court finder.
4. Who decides bond in Miner County?
Officers bring arrested people to the nearest committing magistrate without unnecessary delay (SDCL §23A-4-1). A warrant may already list the bail amount (SDCL §23A-2-4). Magistrate judges may set bond too (SDCL §16-12B-7). A clerk magistrate can set it from the bond schedule (SDCL §16-12C-10).
5. Is release without money possible in Miner County?
Often, yes. The law starts with personal recognizance (SDCL §23A-43-2). The court may also use an unsecured appearance bond (SDCL §23A-43-2). Extra terms are allowed when appearance is doubtful (SDCL §23A-43-2). A risk to the public can also justify more (SDCL §23A-43-2).
6. What kinds of bond are used in Miner County?
Here are the main options:
- Personal recognizance: Release on a promise alone (SDCL §23A-43-2).
- 10% deposit bond: Up to 10%, paid to the clerk (SDCL §23A-43-3(4)).
- Surety bond: Sureties guarantee the bond (SDCL §23A-43-3(5)).
- Cash bond: The full amount is paid in cash (SDCL §23A-43-3(5)).
Sureties must swear to their net worth (SDCL §23A-43-20).
7. What counts at a Miner County bond setting?
First come the charge and its evidence (SDCL §23A-43-4). Jobs and family ties count (SDCL §23A-43-4). So do money, character, and time living here (SDCL §23A-43-4). The criminal record and past court dates weigh in (SDCL §23A-43-4).
Formal rules of evidence do not apply here (SDCL §23A-43-12).
8. When might a Miner County judge refuse bond?
Only in rare cases. Most people have a right to bail (S.D. Const. art. VI, §8). Only capital charges with strong proof are excluded (S.D. Const. art. VI, §8). In that case, detention is possible (SDCL §23A-43-2.1).
Someone already out on a personal bond may face stricter terms (SDCL §23A-43-2).
9. How much is bail in Miner County for common charges?
A statewide bond schedule applies (SDCL §16-2-21). Clerk magistrates use it for listed offenses (SDCL §16-12C-10).
The FY2027 version took effect July 1, 2026.
- For murder or kidnapping, a judge sets bond.
- Most felonies run $1,000 to $10,000.
- A first or second DUI lists $225 to $1,000.
- City ordinance cases are usually personal recognizance.
The amount can still change at a hearing.
10. Are bail bondsmen allowed in Miner County?
A bondsman must hold a state license (SDCL §58-22-4). Each one registers with a sheriff (SDCL §58-22-25). They may take nothing beyond the premium (SDCL §58-22-30). Collateral must be reasonable and returned later (SDCL §58-22-30).
Keep these in mind:
- Ask for a collateral receipt (SDCL §58-22-31).
- Officers and jailers may not write bonds (SDCL §58-22-3).
- Soliciting at the jail is a crime (SDCL §58-22-32).
The state licenses bondsmen (SD Division of Insurance).
11. What rules come with a Miner County bond?
Common limits cover travel and contacts (SDCL §23A-43-3(2)). Release to a responsible person is possible (SDCL §23A-43-3(1)). Some people get a mental health assessment (SDCL §23A-43-3(3)). A nighttime return to custody is allowed (SDCL §23A-43-3(6)).
Every term appears in a written order (SDCL §23A-43-6). Breaking a term can bring a warrant (SDCL §23A-43-6). Terms can be changed later (SDCL §23A-43-7).
12. Is 24/7 sobriety testing a Miner County bond condition?
Courts may require 24/7 sobriety on bond (SDCL §1-11-20). The sheriff usually runs twice-daily breath tests (SDCL §1-11-19). The person pays program fees (SDCL §1-11-25).
It shows up most in DUI charges (SDCL §32-23-1).
13. Are DV bonds different in Miner County?
Police cannot release the person without a judge (SDCL §25-10-40). Bond is set by a judge, not the schedule (SDCL §25-10-40). Expect no-contact terms (SDCL §25-10-41). The judge may order leaving the home or counseling (SDCL §25-10-41).
Contacting the victim from jail is a crime (SDCL §25-10-43). Breaking a no-contact term is a Class 1 misdemeanor (SDCL §25-10-23).
14. How long can Miner County hold someone before court?
The law demands court without unnecessary delay (SDCL §23A-4-1). It may be in person or by video (SDCL §23A-4-1). After a warrantless arrest, a probable cause review is due within 48 hours (County of Riverside v. McLaughlin, 500 U.S. 44 (1991)).
A jailed felony defendant has a preliminary hearing within 15 days (SDCL §23A-4-3). The judge also explains the right to counsel (SDCL §23A-4-3).
15. How do we ask to change a Miner County bond?
Still held after 24 hours? Ask for review (SDCL §23A-43-8). The judge must give written reasons to keep it (SDCL §23A-43-8). Another judge may also review it (SDCL §23A-43-10).
A motion can go to the 3rd Circuit court (SDCL §23A-43-14). An appeal to the state Supreme Court follows (SDCL §23A-43-15).
16. Is missing court in Miner County a crime?
Expect a warrant and forfeiture (SDCL §23A-43-21). For felony charges, it is a Class 6 felony (SDCL §23A-43-31). On a misdemeanor, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor (SDCL §23A-43-31).
Missed a date? Contact the Miner County Clerk of Court quickly.
17. Will a Miner County bond be forfeited?
After a no-show, the court may forfeit the bond (SDCL §23A-43-21). It may be set aside if justice allows (SDCL §23A-43-22). Remission of some money is possible (SDCL §23A-43-24). Sureties may return the person to custody (SDCL §23A-43-29).
18. When is a Miner County cash bond refunded?
A 10% deposit comes back when terms are met (SDCL §23A-43-3(4)). Sureties are released when the case ends (SDCL §23A-43-26). Forfeited cash goes to the county treasury (SDCL §23A-43-25). A bondsman's premium is not refunded.
Ask the clerk of court how refunds are paid.
19. Do minors get bond in Miner County?
Youth cases go to juvenile court, not adult bond court (SDCL §26-7A-14). Holding a child past 48 hours requires a court order (SDCL §26-7A-14). For status offenses, the limit is 24 hours (SDCL §26-7A-14). Weekends and holidays are not counted (SDCL §26-7A-14).
20. What about federal charges from Miner County?
Miner County is in the Southern Division (28 U.S.C. §122). Release is set by a federal magistrate judge (18 U.S.C. §3142).
The clerk's office is at 400 S. Phillips Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 (605-330-6600).
21. What should I confirm with Miner County offices first?
Hours, fees, and payment types can change.
A quick call first saves a trip.
- Carry photo ID.
- Have the case number ready.
- Ask how payment can be made.
This is general help, not legal advice.
Miner County bail contacts
- Jail used
- Lake County Jail, 200 E. Center Street, Madison, SD 57042, 605-256-5044
- Sheriff
- Miner County Sheriff's Office, Park and Main, Howard, 605-772-4501
- Clerk of Court
- 401 N. Main, Howard, SD 57349-0265, 605-772-4612
- Judicial circuit
- 3rd Judicial Circuit
- Federal court
- U.S. District Court, Southern Division; clerk at 400 S. Phillips Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, 605-330-6600
- Bondsman licenses
- SD Division of Insurance
- Inmate search
- Miner County Inmate Search
Judges set release terms case by case. Nothing here is legal advice.
Miner County Jail
Address:
Miner County Jail
Howard, SD
Phone:
605-772-4501
Frequently Asked Questions about Bail and Bonds in Miner County
What kind of bonds are accepted in Miner County?
Who can set bail in Miner County?
When is bail set in Miner County South Dakota?
Does Miner County have bail?
Yes, Miner County recognizes most types of bonds.
In South Dakota, it is up to the defendant to bear the burden of proof as to why they will not, or do not have the ability to flee prosecution.
Bail is usually established in cases where a felony or Class I misdemeanor has occurred.
People arrested on Class II misdemeanors are usually released on recognizance meaning that if the court decides that there is a good chance that the arrested will show up for trial and not flee, they are released on their own promise, or recognizance without having to pay bail.
What kind of bonds are accepted in Miner County?
In Miner County, once bail is set a defendant must pay the required amount of bail set by the court to be released from temporary holding (typically the county jail). If the person cannot afford the amount of bail required by the court, they must seek a bond from a licensed bondsperson to cover the amount. The bondsperson will charge 10% and can offer a surety or property bond.
Who can set bail in Miner County?
The magistrate judge is given the ability to consider various factors in determining bail. Judges in South Dakota rely on a statewide bail schedule, which sets out a recommended range of bail amounts for different offenses. Judges can still exercise discretion in setting bail above or below the recommended range.
Typically, some of the biggest factors considered are the nature of the offense, the amount of credible evidence against the defendant, the defendant’s criminal history, their location, their income, and their ability to afford to attempt to escape prosecution.
The South Dakota Courts can set conditions for the release of a defendant on bail. These conditions can include many factors such as not leaving a certain area, not consuming drugs or alcohol, not hanging out with certain people, and receiving mental health counseling. If these conditions are not met the person will be taken back into custody.
When is bail set in Miner County South Dakota?
Bail for minor, non-violent offense are set via a phone call with the on duty judge between 8:00 am – 9:00 pm.
If the arrest occurs after 9:00 pm you will need to wait until 8:00 am the next day.
More serious offenses require a hearing in front of a judge, which will be scheduled according to the court calendar. This will generally occur the next day, not including weekends or holidays.
What is Bail?
Bail is what the arrested in Miner County must pay or do to stay out of jail until the first court appearance.
The agreement to bail acts as a promise that the arrested will return to court for court dates and trial. Bail usually refers to a dollar amount, but bail can also mean something that has to be done, or a condition such as reporting to an officer of the court, a curfew, restraining orders or attending a treatment program.
Bail is usually a significant enough amount of money and/or condition that the person will be negatively impacted and has incentive to return to court and not flee. A flight risk usually means that the person would flee the area, and not necessary that they are going to take an airplane.
If a judge in Miner County feels that the arrested will return to court for further proceedings, the arrested could be released under a conditional release without needing to pay bail money. This is called Released on Own Recognizance, or ROR.
Conditions for ROR might be to obey all court orders and laws, maintain contact with the lawyer, report changes in residence or have no contact with the victim. Family support will show the court that there are people who will make sure that the defendant makes it to court.
If the judge or bail schedule determines that the defendant would be a danger to the public if they were released, bail can be denied, and the person detained in a jail or prison until the case is resolved or goes to trial.
Bail can be denied if the defendant did not comply with bail conditions from a previous arrest. Bail is usually denied in cases of violent offenses.
What is the difference between Bail and Bond?
Bail and bond are used interchangeably to mean the same thing but technically, they are different. The bail is the amount to be paid and a bond is a signed document promising payment of the bail amount with certain conditions. Think of a bond as a loan to pay for the bail.
In South Dakota, once bail is set a defendant must pay the required amount of bail set by the court to be released from temporary holding (typically the county jail). If the person cannot afford the amount of bail required by the court, they must seek a bond from a licensed bondsperson to cover the amount.
Before rushing into contacting a bond company, consider the following:
Payments to a bond company are not refundable. It is a long process to get back property title to secure the bond back. This could put your loved ones into a difficult financial situation.
Another reason not to unnecessarily rush into securing a bond is that if the court notes that you came up with the money to pay a bond company, they may assume you have resources to pay a defense attorney and decline public defense.
On the other hand, as anyone who has ever been involved in their criminal defense understands, fighting your case while ‘out on the streets’ gives you a much better chance of either winning, or getting a more favorable sentence.
What are the different types of bonds in Miner County?
In South Dakota, if you do not have cash to pay for bail, a bondsperson can be used. (There have been phone scams where a bond company calls and informs a person that their family member has been arrested and they ask for financial information. A bondsperson will not call asking for money without involvement of the arrested.)
A professional bondsperson makes money, at least 10% of the bond amount by providing you with a “loan” called a bond. The percent that they charge is fixed by the state and cannot be negotiated. The defendant or surety does not get that 10% or more back even if the terms of the bail are met.
Since the bondsperson signed off, to be responsible that you show to court as your surety, they can send a bounty hunter to bring you to court if you flee. A bondsperson does not have to give you a bond if the defendant seems to be too much of a risk.
Ask the bondsperson to explain all the costs: percentage, fees or court fees. There is never a reason to rush through signing the paperwork with a bond company. Make sure that everything told to you is in writing and that you understand what you are signing. Ask questions, and if you feel rushed or don’t understand the contract with the bond company, you might want to call another one.
There might be several options available through a bond company, one is a surety bond, and another option is a property bond in which the bond is pledged in land or home real estate (mobile homes are not accepted). Usually, the property must be in the same state as the courts, and it must be worth at least 2 times the amount of the bond.
With a property bond, the property deed would need to be signed over to the bondsperson and everyone on the deed would need to be involved.
Does Miner County have bail?
Yes, Miner County recognizes most types of bonds.
In South Dakota, it is up to the defendant to bear the burden of proof as to why they will not, or do not have the ability to flee prosecution.
Bail is usually established in cases where a felony or Class I misdemeanor has occurred.
People arrested on Class II misdemeanors are usually released on recognizance meaning that if the court decides that there is a good chance that the arrested will show up for trial and not flee, they are released on their own promise, or recognizance without having to pay bail.
What kind of bonds are accepted in Miner County?
In Miner County, once bail is set a defendant must pay the required amount of bail set by the court to be released from temporary holding (typically the county jail). If the person cannot afford the amount of bail required by the court, they must seek a bond from a licensed bondsperson to cover the amount. The bondsperson will charge 10% and can offer a surety or property bond.
Who can set bail in Miner County?
The magistrate judge is given the ability to consider various factors in determining bail. Judges in South Dakota rely on a statewide bail schedule, which sets out a recommended range of bail amounts for different offenses. Judges can still exercise discretion in setting bail above or below the recommended range.
Typically, some of the biggest factors considered are the nature of the offense, the amount of credible evidence against the defendant, the defendant’s criminal history, their location, their income, and their ability to afford to attempt to escape prosecution.
The South Dakota Courts can set conditions for the release of a defendant on bail. These conditions can include many factors such as not leaving a certain area, not consuming drugs or alcohol, not hanging out with certain people, and receiving mental health counseling. If these conditions are not met the person will be taken back into custody.
When is bail set in South Dakota?
Bail for minor, non-violent offense are set via a phone call with the on duty judge between 8:00 am – 9:00 pm.
If the arrest occurs after 9:00 pm you will need to wait until 8:00 am the next day.
More serious offenses require a hearing in front of a judge, which will be scheduled according to the court calendar. This will generally occur the next day, not including weekends or holidays.
Can I get the bail or bond reduced in Miner County South Dakota?
Yes, your attorney can also request a bond reduction.
In Miner County South Dakota, who can pay bail for me?
The person posting bail could be the defendant, a relative or close friend, called a surety, because they are promising and taking responsibility that you will return to court to get their money back.
A surety is not responsible for court fees or paying off personal debts for the defendant. A professional bondsperson who is approved by the State of South Dakota could be the surety and execute a bond to the court on your behalf.
Can bail be paid online in Miner County South Dakota?
South Dakota counties do not currently process online payments for bail.
Contact the jail for specific information on how to pay bail. Go to the Miner County Jail for more information about the jails in Miner County.
What options are there to pay bail in Miner County South Dakota?
Most South Dakota courts only accept cash or surety issued by bail bond agent. Contact the jail for specific information on what methods of payment are accepted. Go to the Miner County Jail for more information about posting bail in Miner County.
Will I get all my bond money back in South Dakota?
Bail money is returned to the person who paid the bail; in whole or in part once the case is finished. There may be fees, restitution (money to pay for damage caused by the crime) or fines that come out of that amount. If you used a bondsperson, you would not get your 10% back. Property is returned by the bondsperson after the appropriate requests and formal paperwork are completed with the court.
Can I get bail or a bond with no money down in Miner County?
The judge or officer who sets bail determines which kind of bail will be an option for you, but a cash bond and PR bonds usually do not require cash down, though you might have to pay court fees.
A cash bond or a personal recognizance (PR) bond are bonds where someone representing the defendant signs paperwork promising to pay the bail amount if the defendant does not show up to court. There is no money due up front.
If the defendant does not show up, the full amount of the bail will be due to the court and the people who signed the paperwork will be responsible for paying the court and the court will send the sheriff’s department to arrest you.
Cash bonds and PR bonds are types of unsecured bonds because you are not securing it with any money down. In bond terms, a surety is a person who will be responsible to make sure that you will show to court and will be responsible to pay the bond if the arrested person does not show up. A surety can be family, friend or a bondsperson. Your attorney cannot act as a surety.
What are the least expensive and affordable bail bonds in South Dakota?
The Miner County Jail or court in this jurisdiction can provide you with a list of approved and licensed bond companies, but they cannot recommend a specific company. You are not obligated to use the first company available and can call several companies to compare what kind of bonds that the bondsperson is willing to execute.
The percentage of bail that the bond company can charge is set, usually at 10%, by the state and cannot be negotiated.