Professional Warrant Attorney in Canoga Park

In Canoga Park, a bench warrant differs from an arrest warrant primarily in its purpose. While an arrest warrant is issued for suspected criminal activity, a bench warrant is typically issued by a judge when someone fails to appear in court or violates a court order. The term “bench” refers to the judge’s seat in the courtroom, highlighting the administrative nature of the warrant. Bench warrants are common in Canoga Park and may not directly involve criminal conduct.

When a judge in Canoga Park issues a bench warrant, it is often due to a missed court appearance or a violation of a court directive. If a bench warrant is issued for you, law enforcement has the authority to arrest you and bring you to court. You have the option of hiring a skilled criminal defense lawyer, such as My Rights Law, to address the warrant and potentially prevent your arrest. By addressing the warrant swiftly, you can reduce the consequences and navigate the legal process more smoothly.

Bench warrants issued in Canoga Park do not expire. They remain active until they are resolved in court. This means that even if years pass, the warrant will still be on your record, and law enforcement can arrest you at any time. California law does not permit individuals to “wait out” a bench warrant, as doing so could encourage evasion of the legal process. It is crucial to address the warrant with the assistance of a criminal defense attorney who can help you clear your record.

If a bench warrant has been issued against you in Canoga Park, immediate action is necessary to avoid arrest. A bench warrant gives law enforcement the authority to take you into custody at any time. To resolve this, it is important to seek representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney, such as My Rights Law. We can work to recall or quash the warrant, potentially avoiding your arrest and minimizing legal consequences.

An arrest warrant is a legal document that gives the police authority to take someone into custody. In Canoga Park, arrest warrants are typically issued following a criminal investigation, where probable cause suggests that the individual named in the warrant has committed a crime. Unlike a bench warrant, which is issued for failure to comply with a court order, arrest warrants are specifically related to criminal offenses. These warrants must include key details such as the suspect’s name, the alleged crime, and the judge’s signature.

Failure to appear in court is a serious offense under California Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. Whether it is a misdemeanor or felony depends on the nature of the charges you were facing when you failed to appear. In Canoga Park, if you were released on your own recognizance and did not appear, you could be charged with a misdemeanor. If you were out on bail for a felony and failed to appear, the offense becomes a felony. It’s crucial to attend all court hearings to avoid these legal repercussions.

In Canoga Park, failing to appear in court can result in significant penalties. For a misdemeanor failure to appear, you could face up to six months in county jail and fines. For a felony failure to appear, the penalties increase to one to three years in jail or prison. These penalties are in addition to any consequences for the original charges against you. If you were out on bail when you missed your court date, you may also face felony charges under California Penal Code 1320.5. It is vital to consult a criminal defense attorney to understand the full scope of penalties and how they may impact your case.