Dealing with an active arrest warrant can be overwhelming, but it’s important to address the situation appropriately to avoid escalating legal issues. Ignoring a warrant can lead to more severe consequences, such as harsher penalties, a permanent criminal record, or even public arrest. If you suspect there’s a warrant for your arrest or have been notified of one, acting quickly and responsibly can help you manage the legal process.
Key Takeaways:
- Don’t ignore the warrant: Evading the police will only make things worse and may result in additional charges.
- Consult a lawyer first: A criminal defense attorney can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with prosecutors, and help arrange a controlled surrender.
- Verify the warrant: Have your attorney confirm the warrant’s details, including the charges and the court that issued it.
Possible Steps You Can Take:
- Surrender voluntarily: With your lawyer’s assistance, you can arrange to turn yourself in and face the charges.
- Appear in court: Your lawyer might be able to schedule a court date to resolve the issue without immediate arrest.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor: Depending on your case, your lawyer may be able to negotiate a reduced sentence or a plea deal.
What to Avoid:
- Contacting the police directly: Without legal representation, you could unintentionally incriminate yourself.
- Lying about your identity: Doing so could lead to additional charges.
- Fleeing from the authorities: Evading arrest only worsens the situation and increases the severity of the consequences.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Confirm the Warrant
Before taking any action, make sure there is indeed an active warrant for your arrest. You can confirm this in a few ways:
- Contact the Court or Law Enforcement: Call the local police department or courthouse where the alleged offense occurred to confirm whether a warrant has been issued.
- Check Online: Many jurisdictions offer searchable online databases to check for warrants.
- Speak With an Attorney: If you’re uncertain or need assistance, a criminal defense lawyer can help confirm the warrant’s existence and advise on the next steps.
2. Determine the Type of Warrant
Warrants can be issued for various reasons, each with different procedures:
- Bench Warrant: Issued by a judge when someone fails to appear in court.
- Search Warrant: Grants law enforcement permission to search a person’s property for evidence.
- Arrest Warrant for a Crime: Issued when police have probable cause to believe a crime has been committed.
3. Consult a Criminal Defense Attorney
Once you confirm a warrant exists, the best course of action is to consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Your attorney can:
- Review the warrant: Verify if it was issued properly and challenge it if there are any errors.
- Assist with surrendering: If you decide to turn yourself in, your lawyer can help negotiate bail or conditions for your surrender.
- Guide you through legal options: Your lawyer will explain your options for responding to the charges and help minimize potential penalties.
4. Consider Voluntary Surrender
Voluntarily surrendering to authorities can show the court that you are cooperating and may result in a more favorable outcome. To do so:
- Coordinate with your attorney: Your lawyer can arrange for you to surrender to law enforcement and potentially negotiate bail terms.
- Be calm and respectful: Cooperating with authorities can positively influence how your case is handled.
5. Attend Court and Resolve the Case
Once arrested (or after you voluntarily surrender), you’ll likely have a court date. During the hearing, the charges against you will be reviewed, and you’ll have a chance to present your defense. To prepare:
- Comply with bail conditions: If bail is set, ensure you meet the requirements to avoid detention. In some cases, your lawyer can argue for a lower bail or even a release on your own recognizance.
- Prepare for the next steps: Your attorney will help you decide whether to negotiate a plea deal, seek a reduced sentence, or prepare for trial.
6. Understand the Consequences of Ignoring an Arrest Warrant
Ignoring a warrant can lead to significant consequences:
- Harsher penalties: If you evade arrest, courts may impose higher fines, longer sentences, or additional charges.
- Public arrest: Law enforcement can arrest you at any time, even in public, causing disruption and embarrassment.
- Eventually being caught: A warrant doesn’t expire, and law enforcement will eventually track you down, making it harder to avoid the consequences.
7. Prevent Future Legal Problems
Once you’ve addressed the warrant, take steps to avoid future legal trouble:
- Follow court orders: Ensure that you attend all scheduled court dates and comply with any probation requirements.
- Stay informed: Keep track of any ongoing legal matters and stay in contact with your attorney to prevent further issues.
- Act promptly on legal issues: When faced with legal trouble, it’s always better to address it early rather than delay.
The Bottom Line
Having an outstanding arrest warrant is a serious issue that requires prompt attention. The best approach is to verify the existence of the warrant, consult with an experienced attorney, and, if appropriate, surrender voluntarily. By handling the situation proactively and with legal guidance, you can protect your rights and potentially reduce the legal consequences.
About Bail Bonds St. Tammany
Bail Bonds St. Tammany is a local bonding company. With several locations throughout the state of Louisiana, we service St. Tammany Parish Jail in Covington, Livingston Parish Jail in Livingston, Jefferson Parish Jail in Gretna, Tangipahoa Parish Jail in Amite, St. John Parish Jail in Laplace, and many more.
For more than 20 years in the industry, Bail Bonds St. Tammany has been providing both families and individuals with expedient and efficient bail service. We are reliable at any time, day or night. We are always here for our clients and we treat people who require bail as people, not criminals. There is no way of knowing the circumstances behind what has happened to an accused, and we firmly believe in “innocent until proven guilty.” This respectful approach to our clients is part of what makes Bail Bonds St. Tammany better than the competition.
We process all bond payments securely, and our friendly staff is efficient and hardworking, getting all the required paperwork done as quickly as possible. We do not want loved ones to stay in custody longer than necessary. Our bail bondsman will make the entire process of obtaining bail simple and painless. Let industry knowledge work for you.
We offer payment plans, too. For more details on the types of bail bonds we offer, and to get started, call any of our locations, or fill out an online form.
