Comal County Jail Inmate Bail & Bonds
Comal County bail help for families
Here is how bail works in Comal County, Texas. Arrests are booked at the county jail, run by the sheriff. Inmate search: Comal County Inmate Search.
After a Comal County arrest, where is someone held?
Start with the Comal County Inmate Search.
Arrests here go to the jail. Call the Comal County Sheriff's Office, 3005 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130 (830-620-3400).
Tips for the call:
- Share the person's legal name.
- Give their date of birth.
- Ask if bail has been set.
Charge details may not be shared.
Where do Comal County felony cases get filed?
Reach the District Clerk at 150 N Seguin, Ste 304, New Braunfels, TX 78130 (830-221-1250). District courts hear felony cases (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 4.05).
Bond filings for felonies land there.
Call about hours and payment types.
Where do Comal County misdemeanor cases go?
Class A and B cases go to county court (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 4.07). Justice courts take fine-only cases (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 4.11). Municipal courts handle city cases (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 4.14).
A justice of the peace can act as magistrate too (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 2A.151).
How are Comal County bondsmen licensed?
A board is required here. Counties over 110,000 people must have one (Tex. Occ. Code §1704.051). Bondsmen there need a county license (Tex. Occ. Code §1704.151).
Bondsmen may not solicit at the jail (Tex. Occ. Code §1704.304). Jail staff cannot steer you to one (Tex. Occ. Code §1704.304).
The board keeps a list of licensees.
After an arrest in Comal County, who sets bail?
The arrested person goes before a magistrate within 48 hours (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 15.17). Many hearings run by video from the Comal County jail (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 15.17). The magistrate makes the bail decision in that window (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.028).
Only a trained magistrate may release on most jailable charges (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.023).
Ask the magistrate for an appointed lawyer if needed (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 15.17).
Why does a Comal County magistrate check a report?
A public safety report is ordered for Class B or higher (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.022). It sums up criminal history and bond eligibility (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.021). It is due within 48 hours of arrest (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.022).
Bail is set only after the report is considered (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.022).
Can someone in Comal County get out without paying?
Sometimes. A personal bond is a signed promise to appear (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.03). The law asks for the least restrictive terms needed (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.028).
Personal bonds are barred for:
- Offenses involving violence, as the statute lists them (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.03).
- Unlawful gun possession by a felon (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.03).
- Breaking a bond or protective order (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.03).
Delay rules can still require release later (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.151).
What bond options exist in Comal County?
Common types include:
- Personal bond: release on a signed promise (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.03).
- Cash bond: cash deposited for the whole bond (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.02).
- Surety bond: a bondsman or other surety guarantees it (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.11).
- Property bond: the surety states what property backs it (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.13).
A surety must be worth double the bond (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.11).
How does a Comal County magistrate pick a bail amount?
The magistrate weighs these:
- Bail must secure appearance without being a tool of oppression (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.15).
- The nature of the offense, including any violence (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.15).
- The person's ability to pay (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.15).
- Risk to the victim and the public (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.15).
- The record and past failures to appear (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.15).
- Whether the person is a citizen (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.15).
An inability-to-pay affidavit is allowed (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.028).
When might Comal County hold someone without bail?
Most people have a right to bail (Tex. Const. art. I, §11). The first exception is a capital charge with strong proof (Tex. Const. art. I, §11).
Denial is also possible when:
- A felony follows two prior felony convictions (Tex. Const. art. I, §11a).
- The person was already on bail for a felony (Tex. Const. art. I, §11a).
- A release condition tied to safety is broken (Tex. Const. art. I, §11b).
- A family violence order is violated (Tex. Const. art. I, §11c).
A district judge holds a hearing first (Tex. Const. art. I, §11a).
Did Proposition 3 change bail in Comal County?
Proposition 3 passed in November 2025 (Tex. Const. art. I, §11d). It covers murder, aggravated robbery, and similar charges (Tex. Const. art. I, §11d). The State can win denial of bail with enough proof (Tex. Const. art. I, §11d).
For flight risk, the bar is a preponderance (Tex. Const. art. I, §11d). A safety finding needs clear and convincing proof (Tex. Const. art. I, §11d).
The person has a right to counsel at that hearing (Tex. Const. art. I, §11d).
Can bail on a repeat Comal County felony be reviewed?
A new felony while on felony bail goes to the first court (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.027). The old bond can be revoked or modified (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.027(a-1)).
Since 2025, prosecutors may ask a district judge to review felony bail (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.029).
Review comes by the next business day (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.029).
What if Comal County finds no probable cause?
After a warrantless arrest, a magistrate must find probable cause (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.033).
- For a misdemeanor, release by hour 24, bond up to $5,000 (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.033(a)).
- For a felony, release by hour 48, bond up to $10,000 (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.033(b)).
No money? It becomes a personal bond (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.033). The State may ask to extend to 72 hours (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.033(c)).
What if the Comal County case drags on?
The State must be ready within:
- Felony: 90 days (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.151).
- 30 days for a Class A misdemeanor (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.151).
- Class B misdemeanor: 15 days (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.151).
- Fine-only charge: 5 days (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.151).
The fix is a lower bond or personal bond (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.151). Some people, such as those held for safety violations, are excluded (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.151).
Can Comal County require monitoring on bond?
Magistrates may add safety conditions (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.40). These include curfew and electronic monitoring (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.43). Some must pass drug tests (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.44).
A repeat DWI usually means an interlock device (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.441).
Breaking a term can mean a hearing and revocation (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.40).
How is bail handled for Comal County family violence cases?
Expect a magistrate's emergency protection order (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.292). It is mandatory with serious injury or a weapon (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.292). Conditions may include GPS monitoring and staying away (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.49).
A violation may lead to denial of bail (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.152).
Officers cannot set the amount on violent charges (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.20(d)).
How do we change bail in Comal County?
A court may raise or lower bail for good cause (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.09). A lawyer usually files a motion in the trial court. Bring proof of income and ties (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.15).
Ask the district clerk's office where to file.
What happens after a missed Comal County court date?
First, the court calls the name at the door (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 22.02). Then a judgment nisi forfeits the bond (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 22.02).
- Felony case: third-degree felony (Tex. Penal Code §38.10).
- Misdemeanor case: Class A misdemeanor (Tex. Penal Code §38.10).
- Fine-only case: Class C (Tex. Penal Code §38.10).
Call the court or a lawyer right away.
What happens to a Comal County surety after a no-show?
Sureties get a citation to answer (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 22.03). Some reasons excuse the surety, like illness (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 22.13). If the person returns, a remittitur is possible (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 22.16).
Sureties can return the person to jail (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.16).
When is a Comal County cash bond refunded?
A cash bond goes back to the receipt holder (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.02). Fees and costs may be taken out (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 17.02). The fee paid to a bondsman stays with them.
Ask in writing; collateral is due within 30 days (Tex. Occ. Code §1704.301).
Keep the receipt (Tex. Occ. Code §1704.305).
What if a teen is arrested in Comal County?
A child goes to a juvenile office or is released (Tex. Fam. Code §52.02). Many are released to a parent (Tex. Fam. Code §52.02). A detention hearing follows by the second working day (Tex. Fam. Code §54.01).
There is no money bail in juvenile court (Tex. Fam. Code §54.01).
How are federal arrests in Comal County handled?
Federal cases from Comal County go to the San Antonio Division of the Western District (28 U.S.C. §124). Release is set by a federal magistrate judge (18 U.S.C. §3142).
Court sits at San Antonio.
What should I confirm with Comal County offices first?
Office hours and payment rules can change.
A quick call first saves a trip.
- Bring a photo ID.
- Bring the booking or case number.
- Ask which payment forms are taken.
Laws change. A lawyer can confirm details.
Comal County bail contacts
- Sheriff
- Comal County Sheriff's Office, 3005 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130, 830-620-3400
- District Clerk
- 150 N Seguin, Ste 304, New Braunfels, TX 78130, 830-221-1250
- Federal court
- U.S. District Court, Western District, San Antonio Division (San Antonio)
- Bail bond board
- Required (county of 110,000+); ask the county for the board office
- Inmate search
- Comal County Inmate Search
Judges and magistrates set release terms case by case. Nothing here is legal advice.
How do Bail Bonds work at Comal County Jail
Bail at the Comal County Jail: Start Here
Bonding someone out of the Comal County Jail happens at the jail itself, 3000 IH 35 South, New Braunfels, TX 78130, rather than at the downtown courthouse. Its Bonding Office takes a cash bond only as money orders or cashier's checks totaling the exact amount, so credit cards, personal checks and paper currency won't work there. Families who can't cover the full amount usually turn to a bonding company holding a license from the county's Bail Bond Board, and the magistrate can also grant a personal bond that requires no payment up front.
The sections below walk through who decides the bond, the Texas laws behind it, the steps for each bond type and the questions Comal County families ask most. For the amount on a specific charge, call the jail at 830-620-3450.
Comal County Jail
Address:
3000 IH 35 South
New Braunfels, TX 78130
Phone:
830-620-3450
Frequently Asked Questions about Bail and Bonds in Comal County
How Bail Works at the Comal County Jail
Who decides the bond
After booking, each arrestee is brought before a judge magistrate in the Magistrate Court that sits inside the jail (830-643-3844). That court meets seven days a week, holidays included, with hearings generally beginning around 9:30 AM, and Article 15.17 of the Code of Criminal Procedure requires the appearance within 48 hours of the arrest. The magistrate explains the charges and the person's rights, looks over a statewide Public Safety Report on their record, then fixes the bail amount and any conditions. A handful of serious or repeat-offense felony cases have to go to a judge instead, as the Texas law section further down explains.
Where the money goes in
The Bonding Office in the jail lobby (830-620-3450; fax 830-608-0147) lists its hours as 5 AM to 9 PM. Cash bonds are taken there in person only, as one or more money orders or cashier's checks adding up to the precise amount, because the office cannot accept more than what is owed. Wire transfers and internet payments are refused. With a surety bond, the licensed company files the paperwork with the jail after you sign its agreement.
Once the bond posts
Release processing begins once the jail accepts the bond, and how long it takes depends on how busy intake is, so phone 830-620-3450 before heading over to pick someone up. Any conditions the magistrate ordered apply from the moment of release. From there the case belongs to the trial courts downtown, which our Comal County court guide lists by address. If the person misses a hearing or ignores a condition, the court can forfeit the bond and order them picked up again.
Comal County Bail: Local Questions and Answers
Can a Comal County magistrate refuse bail altogether?
Does the cash I post for a Comal County bond come back?
Can one Comal County bond be part cash and part bondsman?
What will a Comal County bondsman charge?
How does someone ask for a court-appointed lawyer in Comal County?
Which clerk takes bond questions once charges are filed?
What kinds of bond conditions does Comal County use?
Someone called asking me to pay a Comal County bond by phone. Is that real?
Can a Comal County magistrate refuse bail altogether?
In most cases Texas guarantees a bail setting. The exceptions are narrow and growing: since Proposition 3 took effect in November 2025, a judge may refuse bail on certain violent or sexual felony charges once prosecutors prove their case for detention at a hearing. The section on Texas bail law below lists those charges.
Does the cash I post for a Comal County bond come back?
Generally yes, after the case ends and the court orders the refund, minus the administrative fee state law permits. The money goes to whoever is named on the receipt, so store that slip somewhere safe; the refund is requested from whichever clerk holds the file (District Clerk for felonies, County Court at Law Clerk for misdemeanors).
Can one Comal County bond be part cash and part bondsman?
No. A single bond has to be one type: cash, surety or personal. The Magistrate Court cites Attorney General Opinion JC-0215 for that rule.
What will a Comal County bondsman charge?
The bonding company sets its own fee, which is a share of the bond amount and is normally kept by the company even after the case closes. Get the fee, any collateral and your obligations as a co-signer in writing before you sign.
How does someone ask for a court-appointed lawyer in Comal County?
By filling out the county's Financial Affidavit of Indigence and Appointed Attorney Application at magistration or afterward. Under Comal County's Client Choice plan the court rules on the request within three working days, and income below 125% of the federal poverty guidelines is presumed indigent. The Texas Indigent Defense Commission keeps the county's plan on file.
Which clerk takes bond questions once charges are filed?
For a felony, the District Clerk, 150 North Seguin Avenue, Suite 3009, New Braunfels, TX 78130, 830-221-1250. For a misdemeanor, the County Court at Law Clerk, 199 Main Plaza, Suite 1013, New Braunfels, TX 78130, 830-221-1240 (option 3).
What kinds of bond conditions does Comal County use?
Conditions are attached at magistration. Common ones are check-ins with Comal County Community Supervision (830-620-5596), reporting to Hill Country MHDD or a specialty court, and an ignition interlock in DWI cases. A violation can put the person back in custody.
Someone called asking me to pay a Comal County bond by phone. Is that real?
No. The Sheriff's Office says the jail never calls families asking for bond money or any other payment. Hang up and report the call.
Licensed bail bond companies in Comal County
Comal County is a Bail Bond Board county, which means only companies holding a board license may write surety bonds here. The Sheriff's Office keeps the approved list at the jail and changes its order every week, and jail staff won't steer you to any one company. The current list is posted at the Bonding Office in the jail lobby, and the board secretary answers at 830-643-3805 or 830-620-3450 (ext. 2011).
Whoever sets bail in Comal County follows Chapter 17 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. Article 17.15 says the amount should be enough to bring the person back to court without being used as an instrument of oppression, and it has to account for the charge, the person's ability to pay, and the safety of the alleged victim and the public. Several newer laws shape what happens at the IH 35 South jail:
- Senate Bill 6 (2021), the Damon Allen Act. Magistrates have to look at a Public Safety Report summarizing the person's record before deciding bail, and a person charged with an offense involving violence can't be released on a personal bond.
- Senate Bill 9 (2025). For offenses committed on or after September 1, 2025, nobody charged with a felony bonds out until they have appeared before a magistrate who has considered that report. A magistrate appointed under Chapter 54 of the Government Code may not grant bail to someone charged with murder, capital murder, aggravated kidnapping or aggravated sexual assault, or to a felony defendant who was already out on felony bail, parole or probation, has two earlier felony prison terms, or is under an immigration detainer. The law also lengthened the list of charges that rule out a personal bond and lets prosecutors ask a district judge to review a felony bail decision, with a ruling due by the next business day.
- Proposition 3 (voter-approved, in force November 19, 2025). For murder, capital murder, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, aggravated sexual assault, aggravated assault that caused serious injury or involved a firearm, club, knife or explosive, indecency with a child, and human trafficking, bail must be denied when prosecutors show at a hearing that no bail would reasonably assure a return to court or keep the community and victim safe. The accused may have a lawyer at that hearing, and a judge who does grant bail on one of those charges must explain it in a written order.
Texas sets no statewide bail schedule and no fixed bondsman fee; local judges adopt their own schedules, and bonding companies set their own prices. This summary is general information, not legal advice. A defense lawyer can say how these rules apply to a particular case, and the jail answers custody and bond-status questions at 830-620-3450.
Instructions on how to post Bail or Bond in Comal County
Posting a Comal County Bond, Step by Step
- Confirm the person is there and get every bond amount. Start with our Comal County jail lookup page; the county Record Search shows each charge’s bond, and the Bonding Office at the jail (830-620-3450) takes the cash bond. Someone booked on several charges can have a separate bond for each, and all of them must be covered before release.
- Choose how to post it.
- Cash bond: you deposit the whole amount at the jail with money orders, cashier's checks or a mix. Ask the Bonding Office how to make them payable before you buy them.
- Surety bond: a board-licensed bonding company posts the bond in exchange for its fee. If the defendant misses court, the company, and possibly you as co-signer, can owe the full amount.
- Personal bond: only the magistrate or judge can grant one. Nothing is paid at the window, but the defendant signs a promise to owe the full amount after a missed court date.
- Real estate as security: in Comal County, a person who wants to pledge property as an individual surety needs a license from the Bail Bond Board. The board secretary at 830-643-3805 can explain the application.
- Head to the IH 35 South lobby. Bring the payment and a current photo ID to 3000 IH 35 South. According to the Sheriff's bonding page, that window is staffed from 5 AM to 9 PM. Call ahead if you aren't sure which ID they will want to see.
- Keep the paperwork. Hold on to the receipt, which controls who gets a cash bond refund later, and any contract from a bonding company.
- Show up for each hearing. After release, the person's next setting comes from the district court or County Court at Law handling the case. Contact details for each clerk are in our Comal County court guide.