An arrest warrant is a legal document that authorizes law enforcement to detain the person named in it. Typically, a judge issues a warrant after reviewing evidence to determine that there is probable cause to believe the named individual has committed or is likely connected to a specific crime. Once this court order is signed, police officers have the authority to arrest you.
What Happens If You Ignore an Outstanding Warrant?
Having an unaddressed warrant can seriously complicate many aspects of your life, both personally and legally.
- Arrest During Traffic Stops: Any routine stop, like being pulled over for speeding or a broken taillight, can quickly lead to an arrest if your name is flagged in the system for an outstanding warrant.
- Additional Criminal Charges and Bail Complications: Ignoring a warrant may result in additional charges for failure to appear or contempt of court, which could lead to stricter bond conditions or even the denial of bail.
- Driver’s License: Some warrants for missed court dates, driving offenses, or unpaid fines may result in driver’s license consequences.
Avoiding a warrant does not make it go away; it only prolongs the legal trouble that comes with it.
How to Find Out if You Have an Outstanding Warrant
If you suspect you may have an outstanding warrant, accurately confirming your status is the first important step.
Here are some safe and reliable methods to check:
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- Checking Court Records: You can contact the clerk’s office or visit the court’s official website in the county where you believe the warrant may have been issued. Many courts provide searchable online dockets, allowing you to look up your name.
- Look Online: The Arizona Department of Public Safety offers a warrant search function on its website. You can check here, just keep in mind that the results can be incomplete and are not updated in real time.
- Contacting an Attorney: A criminal defense attorney can check for outstanding warrants on your behalf, along with advising you on the safest next steps to take if one exists.
- Risks of Contacting Law Enforcement Directly: Calling the police or sheriff’s department may confirm the existence of a warrant, but it can also place you at risk of being arrested.
Getting professional guidance from a lawyer helps ensure you take the right next steps and avoid costly mistakes.
Steps to Take If You Learn You Have an Arrest Warrant
Discovering an active arrest warrant in your name can be a bit overwhelming, so it’s important to take the right steps.
Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
Before doing anything else, consult a criminal defense lawyer who understands warrants in your local court system. An attorney can check the details of your warrant, contact law enforcement or the prosecutor’s office for you, and help develop a plan that addresses the situation while helping minimize unnecessary complications.
Get Basic Information About the Warrant
Understanding the exact nature of your arrest warrant is helpful so you know what’s going on. Your lawyer can tell you which court issued the warrant and what it is for. They can also tell you if the arrest warrant is for a misdemeanor or a felony.
Arrange a Surrender or Court Date
Often, attorneys can arrange a “voluntary surrender” or a scheduled court appearance. This can improve your odds of obtaining a favorable bail amount and conditions, and of avoiding arrest in a public place. When you appear voluntarily and with a lawyer by your side, it shows the judge you are taking responsibility.
Dealing with a warrant properly is critical, as you could end up being arrested and remain in custody for an extended period of time if you don’t handle it properly.
Contact a Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorney at Orent Law Offices for a Confidential Consultation
If you have an outstanding arrest warrant, even from years ago, it’s something that needs to be taken seriously and handled appropriately. If you’re unsure but think you might have one, our Phoenix criminal defense lawyers can check for you.
Regardless of your situation, we can help with any criminal matter, including handling an arrest warrant if one exists. Don’t hesitate to contact Orent Law Offices to schedule your free consultation.
Orent Law Offices, PLC
11811 N Tatum Blvd Unit 3031-15B, Phoenix, AZ 85028
(480) 656-7301
Available 24/7
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