It’s late at night in Dallas. The phone rings. A loved one has been arrested and taken to the Lew Sterrett Justice Center. The first thought: Can I get them out tonight?
The short answer: Yes, you can bail someone out of Dallas County Jail at night — but there are a few important details to know.
Dallas County Jail is a 24/7 Operation
The Dallas County Jail doesn’t close. Bookings, magistrations, and releases happen around the clock. That means in theory, bail can be posted at any hour. But the speed of release depends on specific factors.
The Role of Magistrates
A judge (magistrate) must set bail before someone can be released. While Dallas has on-call magistrates, delays can occur at night or on weekends. Some people may have to wait until the morning for bail to be set.
24-Hour Bail Bondsmen
Many Dallas bondsmen operate 24/7. They answer calls at 2 a.m., start paperwork, and stay in contact with the jail until release. Without a 24/7 bondsman, families might have to wait until office hours to even begin the process.
What to Expect at Night
- Paperwork may move slower due to reduced jail staff.
- Release can take several hours, even after bail is posted.
- Weekends and holidays may cause extra delays.
Still, starting the process right away is always better than waiting. The sooner paperwork begins, the sooner release can happen.
What You’ll Need at Night
When calling a bondsman after hours, be ready to provide:
- Full legal name of the arrested person.
- Date of birth.
- Booking number (if available).
- The charges, if known.
Having this information speeds everything up.
At the End of the Day
Yes, you can bail someone out of Dallas County Jail at night — but patience is key. Work with a 24/7 local Dallas bondsman, provide accurate information, and expect a wait of several hours. Even so, moving quickly ensures your loved one spends as little time behind bars as possible.