Sully County Jail Inmate Bail & Bonds
Sully County bail help for families
Sully County lies north of Pierre on Lake Oahe. With no county jail, arrests here usually go to the Hughes County Jail. Inmate search: Sully County Inmate Search.
Does Sully County have its own jail?
Check the Sully County Inmate Search first.
Sully County has no jail of its own. Most people go to the Hughes County Jail, 3100 E. Highway 34, Pierre, SD 57501 (605-773-7475).
Expect booking and bond at the host jail.
You can also call the Sully County Sheriff's Office in Onida (605-258-2244).
On the phone:
- Give their full legal name.
- Add a birth date, if known.
- Ask whether bond is set.
Staff may not discuss the charges.
Where do Sully County criminal cases go?
Court filings go to 700 Ash Avenue, Onida, SD 57564-0188 (605-258-2535).
The Sully County Clerk of Court takes bond deposits (SDCL §23A-43-3(4)).
Ask which payment forms they accept.
What does Sully County magistrate court handle?
The 6th 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 6th Circuit court (SDCL §23A-4-3).
See the UJS court finder for contacts.
After an arrest in Sully County, who sets bond?
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). A magistrate judge can set bond or release on a promise (SDCL §16-12B-7). For listed charges, a clerk magistrate uses the bond schedule (SDCL §16-12C-10).
Can someone in Sully County get out without paying?
Often, yes. The law starts with personal recognizance (SDCL §23A-43-2). An unsecured bond is another option (SDCL §23A-43-2). More can be required if the person may not return (SDCL §23A-43-2). The same goes for danger to others (SDCL §23A-43-2).
What bond options exist in Sully County?
Here are the main options:
- Personal recognizance: A signed promise to appear (SDCL §23A-43-2).
- 10% deposit bond: A deposit of no more than 10% (SDCL §23A-43-3(4)).
- Surety bond: A licensed bondsman backs the full amount (SDCL §23A-43-3(5)).
- Cash bond: Cash replaces a surety (SDCL §23A-43-3(5)).
Each surety signs an affidavit about assets (SDCL §23A-43-20).
What counts at a Sully County bond setting?
First come the charge and its evidence (SDCL §23A-43-4). Family ties and work matter (SDCL §23A-43-4). Finances and length of residence also count (SDCL §23A-43-4). The criminal record and past court dates weigh in (SDCL §23A-43-4).
The setting is informal; evidence rules are relaxed (SDCL §23A-43-12).
When might a Sully County judge refuse bond?
Only in rare cases. Most people have a right to bail (S.D. Const. art. VI, §8). The exception is a capital offense with strong proof (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).
How much is bail in Sully 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.
- Murder and kidnapping must go to a judge.
- Many felonies fall between $1,000 and $10,000.
- A first or second DUI lists $225 to $1,000.
- Ordinance charges usually get personal recognizance.
The amount can still change at a hearing.
How do bail bonds work in Sully County?
A bondsman must hold a state license (SDCL §58-22-4). They must register with the sheriff at home (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).
Other rules to know:
- Get a written receipt for collateral (SDCL §58-22-31).
- Jail staff cannot be bondsmen (SDCL §58-22-3).
- Soliciting at the jail is a crime (SDCL §58-22-32).
The state licenses bondsmen (SD Division of Insurance).
What rules come with a Sully County bond?
The judge can limit travel, contacts, or residence (SDCL §23A-43-3(2)). Someone may be placed in another adult's custody (SDCL §23A-43-3(1)). A mental health assessment can be ordered (SDCL §23A-43-3(3)). A nighttime return to custody is allowed (SDCL §23A-43-3(6)).
A written order lists each term (SDCL §23A-43-6). A violation can lead to arrest (SDCL §23A-43-6). The court may amend the terms (SDCL §23A-43-7).
Is 24/7 sobriety testing a Sully County bond condition?
Courts may require 24/7 sobriety on bond (SDCL §1-11-20). Testing is often twice a day at the sheriff's office (SDCL §1-11-19). The person pays program fees (SDCL §1-11-25).
It shows up most in DUI charges (SDCL §32-23-1).
Are DV bonds different in Sully County?
Release requires notice to a judge first (SDCL §25-10-40). Bond is set by a judge, not the schedule (SDCL §25-10-40). A no-contact order is likely (SDCL §25-10-41). The judge may order leaving the home or counseling (SDCL §25-10-41).
Reaching out to the victim before court is barred (SDCL §25-10-43). Violating that term is a separate misdemeanor (SDCL §25-10-23).
How long can Sully 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 person hears about free counsel if needed (SDCL §23A-4-3).
How do we ask to change a Sully County bond?
If the person is still held a day later, request review (SDCL §23A-43-8). Keeping the bond requires written reasons (SDCL §23A-43-8). Another judge may also review it (SDCL §23A-43-10).
A motion can go to the circuit court (SDCL §23A-43-14). After that, an appeal is possible (SDCL §23A-43-15).
What if someone misses court in Sully County?
The court can issue a warrant right away (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).
Call the Clerk of Court office right away if a date was missed.
Will a Sully County bond be forfeited?
A breach lets the court declare forfeiture (SDCL §23A-43-21). It may be set aside if justice allows (SDCL §23A-43-22). Part may be remitted after judgment (SDCL §23A-43-24). A surety can arrest and surrender the person (SDCL §23A-43-29).
Do we get Sully County bond money back?
A 10% deposit comes back when terms are met (SDCL §23A-43-3(4)). The bond is exonerated once duties end (SDCL §23A-43-26). Forfeited cash goes to the county treasury (SDCL §23A-43-25). The premium paid to a bondsman is kept.
The Clerk of Court office can explain the refund steps.
Do minors get bond in Sully 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). Truancy-type cases have a 24-hour cap (SDCL §26-7A-14). Weekends and holidays are not counted (SDCL §26-7A-14).
Where do Sully County federal cases go?
Sully County is in the Central 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 225 S. Pierre Street, Pierre, SD 57501 (605-945-4600).
What should I confirm with Sully County offices first?
Office hours and payment rules can change.
Call before you go.
- Carry photo ID.
- Bring the booking or case number.
- Ask which payment forms are taken.
Laws change. A lawyer can confirm details.
Sully County bail contacts
- Jail used
- Hughes County Jail, 3100 E. Highway 34, Pierre, SD 57501, 605-773-7475
- Sheriff
- Sully County Sheriff's Office, 700 Ash Avenue, Onida, 605-258-2244
- Clerk of Court
- 700 Ash Avenue, Onida, SD 57564-0188, 605-258-2535
- Judicial circuit
- 6th Judicial Circuit
- Federal court
- U.S. District Court, Central Division; clerk at 225 S. Pierre Street, Pierre, SD 57501, 605-945-4600
- Bondsman licenses
- SD Division of Insurance
- Inmate search
- Sully County Inmate Search
Judges set release terms case by case. Nothing here is legal advice.
Sully County Jail
Address:
700 Ash Ave
Onida, SD 57564
Phone:
605-258-2244
Frequently Asked Questions about Bail and Bonds in Sully County
What kind of bonds are accepted in Sully County?
Who can set bail in Sully County?
When is bail set in Sully County South Dakota?
Does Sully County have bail?
Yes, Sully 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 Sully County?
In Sully 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 Sully 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 Sully 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 Sully 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 Sully 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 Sully 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 Sully County have bail?
Yes, Sully 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 Sully County?
In Sully 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 Sully 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 Sully County South Dakota?
Yes, your attorney can also request a bond reduction.
In Sully 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 Sully 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 Sully County Jail for more information about the jails in Sully County.
What options are there to pay bail in Sully 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 Sully County Jail for more information about posting bail in Sully 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 Sully 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 Sully 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.