Stephens & DiRado, LLP

Arrest & Posting Bond in Knoxville, TN

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Quick Legal Help When It Matters Most in Knox, Loudon and Anderson Counties and throughout all of East Tennessee

If you or a loved one has been arrested in East Tennessee, securing release from jail becomes the immediate priority. At Stephens & DiRado, LLP, we help clients and families navigate the bond process quickly, efficiently, and with compassion.

→ Call (865) 545-0909 or request a free consultation online to get started.

How Do You Post Bond in Tennessee?

There are three common ways to post bond:

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Cash Bond

Paying the full bond amount directly to the court. This may be refunded if you comply with court dates.

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Surety Bond (Bonding Company)

Pay a percentage (usually 10–15%) to a licensed bail bondsman.

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Own Recognizance (ROR)

No money paid—release based on your promise to appear and follow court conditions.

What Happens After an Arrest in Tennessee?

After being arrested, individuals are booked into jail and brought before a Magistrate Judge, who will:


  • Inform you of the charges
  • Decide whether to grant release
  • Set bond conditions, including the amount and type (cash bond, surety bond, or release on recognizance)

If a Bond Source Order is issued, you'll need to prove the legitimacy of your bond funds before being released. (We can help with that too—learn more here.)

Why Clients Trust Stephens & DiRado, LLP

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Fast Response, 24/7 Availability

We act immediately when you're arrested—because time matters.

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Bond & Bail Hearing Experience

We’ve successfully helped hundreds of clients reduce bond and secure release in Knox, Anderson, and surrounding counties.

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Clear Communication with Families

We work directly with loved ones to explain the process and help coordinate bond payments and court appearances.

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Full-Service Criminal Defense

Posting bond is just the start. From arraignment to trial, we stand with you every step of the way.


Frequently asked questions

Arrest & Bond FAQs

  • What happens after someone is arrested in Knoxville?

    After an arrest, the individual is taken to jail for booking. They will appear before a Magistrate Judge who informs them of the charges, sets bond conditions, and decides whether they can be released pending trial.

  • What is a bond?

    A bond is a legal agreement that allows someone accused of a crime to be released from custody while awaiting court. It serves as a promise to return for all court appearances and comply with any conditions set by the judge.

  • What are the types of bond in Tennessee?

    Tennessee recognizes several types of bond: cash bond (paying the full amount to the court), surety bond (paying a percentage through a licensed bonding agent), and release on own recognizance (ROR), which allows release without payment based on the individual’s promise to return.

  • What is a bond source order?

    A bond source order requires that anyone posting bond prove the funds come from a legitimate source—not from illegal activity. The court will not release the person from custody until this condition is met. Our attorneys help prepare the required documentation and represent clients in bond source hearings.

  • Can bond be reduced?

    Yes. If bond is set too high, we can file a motion to reduce it. Judges consider factors like criminal history, risk of flight, and ties to the community when deciding on bond amounts.

  • What if I can’t afford bond?

    If you or your family cannot afford to post bond, we may request pretrial release or file a motion for a bond reduction. Courts may also approve supervised release options in certain cases.

  • How long does it take to get out of jail after posting bond?

    This depends on the jail’s processing speed and the type of bond posted. With the right legal help, most clients are released within a few hours after bond is approved and posted.

  • What paperwork do I need to bring to my attorney?

    It helps to bring the arrest warrant or citation, any court paperwork received, ID, and details of the arrest. If dealing with a bond source order, bring bank statements or any documents proving the origin of the bond funds.

  • Should I talk to the police after being arrested?

    No. You should not speak to police or investigators without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact our firm immediately and exercise your right to remain silent.

  • How can Stephens & DiRado, LLP help?

    We guide clients through every step of the arrest and bond process, from appearing at the initial bond hearing to arguing for bond reductions and helping with source orders. Our team acts fast and communicates clearly with clients and families to reduce stress and delays.

  • Have more questions about arrest or posting bond in Knoxville or Anderson County?

    → Call us at(865) 545-0909or request your free consultation online. We're here when you need us.

Fast Action. Strong Defense.

Need Help Now? Call Our Knoxville Bond Lawyers

At Stephens & DiRado, LLP, we’re here when you need it most. Whether it’s day or night, arrest or pre-trial, our attorneys are prepared to step in and protect your rights.

  Call  865-545-0909 now or request a free consultation online.  We help you get out—and stay out—while building your strongest defense.

Get a Free Consultation