Coming across your loved one on Busted Newspaper Burleigh County can knock the breath right out of you.
If you’re in Bismarck, Mandan, or anywhere across Burleigh County right now, I know exactly how lost and scared that feels — I’ve sat with plenty of local families in the same spot. Here’s simple, honest help so you can start taking real steps today.
First – Get the Real Facts Fast
Go straight to the official Burleigh/Morton Detention Center website here: burleigh.gov/detention-center
There’s no public online inmate search, so call the jail right away: Burleigh/Morton Detention Center 4000 Apple Creek Road, Bismarck, ND 58504 Mailing: PO Box 2499, Bismarck, ND 58502 Main line: (701) 255-3113 Inmate message line: (701) 354-3292
Have the name ready — they’ll give you booking details, charges, and any bond information.
How Bail Works in Burleigh County (Simple Steps)
Most people see a judge or magistrate within 24-48 hours. The amount depends on the charges, record, and ties to the area (job, family, how long you’ve lived here).
Three main ways to get them out:
- Cash bail – Pay the full amount to the court (most comes back if they show up).
- Surety bond (what most families use) – Call a local bondsman, pay 10% fee (non-refundable), they post the full bail.
- Property bond – Use land or a house in North Dakota as collateral (risky — only if you’re certain).
Local bondsmen who know the Burleigh/Morton Detention Center well:
- Bismarck Bail Bonds – (701) 222-2245 (24/7, serves Burleigh & Morton)
- AAA Bail Bonds – (701) 250-9929
Have the booking info ready when you call. They move fast. If the bond seems too high, a lawyer can request a reduction hearing quickly.
Visiting at Burleigh/Morton Detention Center – What Actually Works
For the latest rules always check the official Burleigh/Morton Detention Center website first: burleigh.gov/detention-center
In-person visits only (no video right now):
- Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm (closed on holidays)
- 20 minutes per visit
- Max 2 visitors at a time
- Everyone 18+ needs valid photo ID
- Dress code: shirt with sleeves, no shorts, tank tops, hats, or see-through clothes
You don’t need an appointment, but calling (701) 255-3113 the day before or same day to reserve a slot is smart.
Mail: Burleigh-Morton County Detention Center PO Box 2499, Bismarck, ND 58502 (include full name + booking number)
Add money to their account: Use the kiosk in the detention center lobby (cash or card, 24/7)
Why a Local Lawyer Changes Everything
The public defender is there if you qualify, but a private lawyer who works these Bismarck courts every week knows the judges and can often get better results — lower bond, treatment options, or faster resolutions. They’ll explain everything in plain English.
Good places to start:
- Legal Services of North Dakota (free help if you qualify) – 1-800-634-5263
- State Bar of North Dakota Lawyer Referral Service – 1-866-450-9579 (only $30 for a referral + 30-min consult)
Local Resources That Actually Help
- Legal Services of North Dakota: Apply online at lsnd.org or call 1-800-634-5263 (Mon-Thurs 9am-3pm)
- Dial 211 – food, rent help, counseling, support groups
- Burleigh County Sheriff’s Office main line: (701) 222-6651
One Last Thing
This feels like the end of the world right now, but I’ve watched so many Bismarck-area families come through it stronger. Your loved one is safe, fed, and waiting to hear your voice. Take care of yourself and the kids — eat, rest, keep some normal routine going.
You’ve already done the hardest part by looking for real answers. One call, one visit, one court date at a time — you’ve got this.
Strength to you and your whole family. This is just a chapter, not the whole story. Hang in there.