Professional Warrant Attorney in Burbank

In Burbank, bench warrants are often more common than arrest warrants, but they serve a different purpose. A bench warrant is typically issued when someone fails to appear in court or comply with a court order, rather than because of suspected criminal activity. The term “bench” refers to the judge’s seat, as the warrant is issued by the judge in response to court-related issues, not crimes.

A bench warrant in Burbank is issued by a judge when someone misses a scheduled court appearance. Once the warrant is in place, law enforcement officers are authorized to arrest the individual and bring them before the court. If you find yourself with an outstanding bench warrant, hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can help resolve the issue without facing immediate arrest.

Bench warrants in Burbank do not expire. They remain active indefinitely until resolved, meaning you cannot simply wait for the warrant to “go away.” This ensures that individuals do not evade the justice system by avoiding court appearances. The only way to remove a bench warrant is by addressing it through the legal process, which often requires the guidance of a skilled defense attorney.

If you have a bench warrant in Burbank, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to resolve it before an arrest occurs. The best course of action is to consult with a reputable criminal defense attorney like My Rights Law, who can assist in navigating the legal process. In many cases, your attorney can file a motion to quash (dismiss) the warrant, potentially preventing an arrest altogether.

An arrest warrant gives Burbank police the legal right to detain you. Unlike a bench warrant, which relates to court order violations, arrest warrants are issued when law enforcement suspects you of committing a crime. Arrest warrants are based on probable cause and typically follow an investigation. The warrant must clearly state the suspect’s name, the crime, and be signed by a judge to be valid.

Failure to appear is a criminal offense in California under Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5, depending on whether you were released on your own recognizance or posted bail for a felony. If you fail to show up for a court hearing, whether for a misdemeanor or a felony charge, you could face additional charges. These penalties are severe and highlight the importance of attending all required court appearances.

In Burbank, failing to appear in court can lead to serious consequences, including:

Up to six months in jail for a misdemeanor failure to appear.
One to three years in jail or state prison for a felony failure to appear.
These penalties are in addition to any other charges you may be facing. If you were out on bail and deliberately missed your court date, the penalties could escalate, including felony charges under Penal Code 1320.5. It’s essential to consult a defense attorney immediately to minimize the legal fallout.