Professional Warrant Attorney in Chatsworth

In Chatsworth, bench warrants are distinct from arrest warrants. While an arrest warrant is issued based on suspected criminal activity, a bench warrant arises from non-compliance with court procedures, such as failing to attend a required hearing. The term “bench” refers to the judge’s bench, symbolizing the authority of the court rather than law enforcement. Unlike arrest warrants, bench warrants are not tied to a criminal investigation.

In Chatsworth, a bench warrant is issued by a judge when someone fails to appear for a scheduled court hearing. Once this warrant is issued, law enforcement is authorized to arrest the individual and bring them before the court. If you have a bench warrant in Los Angeles County, it’s crucial to consult with a skilled criminal defense attorney, like those at My Rights Law, who can guide you through the legal process and work to resolve the issue, potentially avoiding arrest.

A bench warrant issued in Chatsworth remains active indefinitely until it is addressed. Bench warrants do not have an expiration date, meaning you cannot simply wait for the warrant to disappear from your record. If left unresolved, it will remain in effect, potentially leading to an arrest at any time. The only way to remove a bench warrant is by taking action, such as appearing in court or resolving the issue with the help of a defense attorney.

If you have a bench warrant in Chatsworth, it is critical to act quickly. Ignoring the warrant can result in your arrest at any moment. To address a bench warrant, you should seek legal advice from an experienced Chatsworth criminal defense attorney at My Rights Law. They can work with the court to recall or quash the warrant, potentially preventing an arrest and resolving the legal issue in a way that minimizes consequences.

An arrest warrant authorizes law enforcement to take you into custody. Unlike bench warrants, arrest warrants are generally issued after an investigation into a crime. A judge must determine that there is probable cause to believe you committed the offense. In most cases, a police officer or prosecutor will present evidence to obtain the warrant. The arrest warrant must specify the suspect’s name, the crime they are accused of, and be signed by the judge. Without this legal document, police officers are limited in their authority to make an arrest.

Failure to appear in court, according to California Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5, is a crime. The specifics depend on whether you were released on your own recognizance or were out on bail. If you fail to appear in court as required, the offense could be classified as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the underlying charge. It’s essential to treat any court summons with seriousness, as failure to comply can lead to additional criminal charges and penalties.

In Chatsworth, the penalties for failing to appear in court can be harsh. If charged with a misdemeanor, you could face up to six months in county jail and fines. For more serious offenses or felony charges, the penalties may include one to three years in jail or prison. These punishments are in addition to any sentences related to the original offense. If you are out on bail and intentionally fail to appear, you may also face felony charges. It’s crucial to consult with a criminal defense attorney to mitigate the impact of these penalties.