No one wants to be in this situation, but in case an event occurs that makes you have to wonder what to do if you have an arrest warrant, it is good to have the knowledge beforehand and a good criminal defense attorney as an ally.
If this is your case, it is important that you act immediately since arrests without a warrant are often made by mistake and, if you do not take steps promptly, you can face serious consequences.
Key Takeaways
- The validity of an arrest warrant must be verified by an attorney, who can also help to quash it.
- It is essential to remain calm if the police try to arrest you, exercising your right to speak with an attorney before answering questions.
- Facing an arrest warrant can affect your employment and generate a criminal record, which complicates aspects of daily life, such as obtaining work or housing.
What is an arrest warrant?
An arrest warrant in the United States is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate. It is usually requested after a police sworn statement to a court about the facts justifying the arrest.
These warrants contain:
- The description of the crime committed;
- The identification of the individual suspected of having committed the crime;
- The location where the suspect might be found.
- The permission for the police to arrest that person.
In some cases, arrest warrants can be issued against people who have not appeared in court or have not paid a fine.
What happens if I have an arrest warrant in the USA?
In the dreaded circumstance where you receive an arrest warrant in California, your first step should be to contact an attorney. He or she can help you determine if the warrant is valid and take steps to have it revoked.
A criminal defense attorney can also help you negotiate with the prosecutor to have the charges dropped or reduced.
What should I do if the police come to arrest me?
If the police come to arrest you, it is important to stay calm and polite. Do not resist arrest and do not try to run away. You should ask to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible. If you are arrested, the police will read you your Miranda rights, which include the right to remain silent and the right to a lawyer. You should exercise these rights and refrain from answering any questions until you have spoken to a lawyer.
Can I be arrested without a warrant?
In some cases, the police can arrest you without a warrant. This can happen if the police have probable cause to believe that you have committed a crime. Probable cause is a lower standard of proof than that required to obtain a warrant, and means that the police have a reasonable belief that you have committed a crime. If the police arrest you without a warrant, they must bring you before a judge within 48 hours so that you can be formally charged with a crime.
Could you lose your job if there is a warrant out for your arrest?
If you are facing criminal charges, you may be able to lose your job. Many employers have policies requiring employees to disclose arrests or convictions, and if you are convicted of a crime, your employer may have the right to fire you. If you are facing an arrest warrant, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive a fair outcome.
What are the consequences of being convicted of a crime?
The consequences of being convicted of a crime depend on the severity of the crime and the state in which you are convicted. In general, the consequences of a criminal conviction can include prison time, probation, a fine, and a criminal record.
The latter can make it difficult to find a job, rent housing, or obtain a loan.
How do you know if you have a warrant for your arrest?
If you are wondering how do you know if you have a warrant for your arrest in California you should know that there are several ways to find out:
- Local records website for your county court or sheriff’s office.
- Through a local bail bondsman.
- Using a private online records search program.
- With the help of a criminal defense attorney.
Additionally, it is important to understand that if there is a warrant for your arrest, the police may come to your home or workplace to arrest you. Alternatively, the court or the prosecutor’s office may contact you and ask you to turn yourself in. If you are contacted by the police or prosecutor’s office, you should ask to speak to an attorney before answering any questions.
What if I was given a fake warrant?
If you were given a fake warrant, you may be able to get the charges against you dropped. In some cases, the prosecutor may agree to drop the charges if you agree to participate in a pretrial diversion program.
A pretrial diversion program is a program that allows first-time offenders to avoid a criminal conviction by completing certain requirements, such as community service or attending therapy. If you have been given a false arrest warrant, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive a fair outcome.
How can a lawyer help me if there is a warrant out for my arrest?
A lawyer can help you determine if the warrant is valid and take steps to get it quashed. In some cases, warrants are issued in error and a lawyer can help you get the warrant dismissed so you don’t have to worry about being arrested. A lawyer can also help you negotiate with the prosecutor to have the charges dropped or reduced. If you are facing a warrant out for your arrest, don’t hesitate to contact S&B Legal today. We can help protect your rights and ensure you receive a fair outcome.
What if I can’t afford a lawyer? If you can’t afford a lawyer, you may be eligible for free or low-cost legal assistance. Contact your local legal aid office to see if you qualify. No matter what your situation, it’s always best to talk to a lawyer if you’re facing criminal charges.
Contact S&B Legal today! If you’re facing criminal charges, it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can help protect your rights and ensure you receive a fair outcome. S&B Legal is experienced in handling a variety of criminal cases and we can help you navigate the criminal justice system. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Summary
Facing an arrest warrant in the United States can have serious consequences, so it is crucial to act quickly and seek the assistance of a criminal defense attorney. An attorney can help verify the validity of the warrant, negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce or drop charges and protect your rights throughout the process. Additionally, it is important to know the circumstances under which you may be arrested and the potential legal and employment consequences that could result.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens after a warrant is issued?
Once a warrant is issued, law enforcement can take specific actions depending on the type of warrant:
- Arrest Warrant: If an arrest warrant is issued, it means the police have legal authority to arrest you at any time. They may come to your home or workplace, or they could arrest you during a routine traffic stop or any other interaction with law enforcement.
- Bench Warrant: A bench warrant is usually issued when someone fails to appear in court for a scheduled hearing. It gives law enforcement the right to arrest the person and bring them to court.
- Search Warrant: If the warrant is for a search, law enforcement will have permission to search the specified property for evidence.
Will I get stopped at the airport if I have a warrant?
You could be stopped at the airport if you have an active warrant. Airports are highly secured, and law enforcement can run checks on passengers, especially when going through customs or security. International travel increases the likelihood of detection, and you could be arrested before boarding, upon arrival, or during routine security checks.
