Guides / Chelan County Jail
A guide to the Chelan County Jail
For the people on the outside: how to reach someone in custody, how release works, and what bail actually means.
Reaching someone in custody
Family and friends can leave voicemail messages, schedule video chats, and arrange in-person visits. The details and rules are on the Regional Justice Center's visiting page.
Getting out after an arrest
After booking, some people can post bail immediately. It depends on the charge. In Chelan County, anyone arrested for a domestic violence offense is held without bail until their first court appearance. If immediate release isn't available, the person sees a judge, usually the next court day, and the judge decides whether to release them and on what conditions. What happens at that hearing.
How bail works
Bail is collateral that guarantees court appearances. There are two ways to post it.
Cash bail
Paid in full, in cash, directly to the jail
- The whole amount comes back at the end of the case if every hearing is attended and every condition followed.
Bail bond
Through a licensed bail bond company
- You pay a non-refundable fee, usually about 10% of the bail amount.
- The bondsman may also require collateral such as property or a vehicle.
When bail is forfeited
If the person fails to appear or violates release conditions, the court can revoke release and forfeit the bail. Cash bail is not returned, the person can be taken back into custody, and with a bond the co-signers or collateral are on the hook.
Need help now?
If your loved one is in custody at the Regional Justice Center, you don't have to navigate bail and court alone. A defense attorney can protect their rights from the very first hearing. Call (509) 630-3492 for a free, confidential consultation.
General information, not legal advice. Every case is different; talk to a lawyer about yours.