Quick Answer

First, confirm custody and bond on the official Sedgwick County Inmate Search. If a bond is set, choose either cash bail (deposit the full amount with the clerk/jail) or a surety bond through Wichita Bonding Company (you pay a non-refundable premium; we guarantee the bond to the court). If the roster indicates “No Bond,” the person may be awaiting their first appearance or be held on another matter (see Timing).

Step-by-Step: From Booking to Release

1. Find the person – Use the inmate search. Note the legal name, booking number, and listed charges.
2. Identify the court – District (Sedgwick County/DC18) or City of Wichita Municipal. This changes where and how we post.
3. Confirm the bond amount & type – Some bonds are preset; others appear after first appearance.
4. Pick a path – Cash bail vs. surety bond (see options below).
5. Call us – We’ll verify status end-to-end, quote the premium, explain documents, and start underwriting if needed.
6. Post & process – Once cash is paid or surety is posted, the jail processes the release. Timing varies by workload and holds.

Release Options: Cash vs. Surety

Cash Bail

A friend or family member deposits the entire bond amount with the clerk or jail. After the case, cash can be applied to fines, fees, court costs, and restitution; any remaining amount may be refunded to the payer of record once accounting is complete.

Surety Bond (Through Wichita Bonding Company)

Instead of depositing the full bond, you pay a premium to Wichita Bonding Company, and we guarantee the bond to the court. The premium is a non-refundable service fee; collateral or a strong cosigner may be required depending on risk. For district-court appearance bonds, Kansas’s Senate Bill 473 requires a minimum premium and that a portion of that minimum be collected before posting.

Documents & What We’ll Ask For

• Defendant’s full legal name, DOB, and booking number (if available)
• Bond amount and court type (district vs. municipal)
• Cosigner’s valid ID, address, employer, and contact info
• Proof of income (recent pay stubs or equivalent) for risk review
• Collateral details if required (vehicle title, property, etc.)

Timing, Holds & Common Slowdowns

Release is a process, not a single button. Common reasons for delay:

• Booking/First Appearance – Bond may not be set until the judge reviews the case.
• Probation/parole hold – A separate hold can block release even if bond is posted on the new case.
• Out-of-county/state warrants – Extradition or transportation arrangements may be the first priority.
• Multiple matters – District and municipal cases running concurrently can create sequencing issues.

In Sedgwick County, Local Rule 303 governs who may post bonds locally, specifically authorized/approved compensated sureties and their listed agents, as well as the procedures the jail follows during posting and forfeiture handling.

What It Costs & Payment Plans

With cash bail, you pay the full amount up front. With a surety bond, you pay a premium based on the bond amount (non-refundable) and, if approved, can often arrange installments with a down payment and written terms. Underwriting considers charge severity, prior failures to appear, employment and housing stability, and the strength of the cosigner. We’ll walk you through exact numbers before posting.

After Release – Conditions & Reminders

• Be aware of every court date – track settings via DC18 Records (district) or the City of Wichita (municipal).
• Follow conditions – No-contact orders, travel limits, or check-ins are common.
• Communicate early – If transportation or work conflicts arise, tell your attorney immediately.
• Keep our info handy – If circumstances change, your bondsman needs to know right away.

Official Resources

• Sedgwick County Inmate Search – custody and, when set, bond amount.
• DC18 Records & Court Schedule – district-court dockets.
• City of Wichita – municipal information.
• Kansas Bail Agents Association – Kansas bail education & training.

Ready to start the release process? Contact Wichita Bonding Company or return to the homepage.

FAQ: Getting Someone Out of Sedgwick County Jail

What if the roster shows “No Bond”?

It can be temporary (awaiting first appearance) or due to another hold. We can check the status and next steps.

Can I switch from cash to surety later?

Often, yes, speak with your attorney and the clerk or bonding company about logistics and timing.

How long does release take after posting?

Processing varies depending on the jail workload and whether any other holds are in place. We’ll set expectations up front.