Professional Warrant Attorney in Downey

In Downey, bench warrants differ from arrest warrants in their purpose and issuance. A bench warrant is typically issued when a person fails to appear for a scheduled court date or does not comply with a court order. It originates directly from the judge, hence the name “bench.” Unlike arrest warrants, which are tied to alleged criminal activity, a bench warrant is not issued due to suspicion of committing a crime. Instead, it relates to procedural violations.

A bench warrant in Downey is issued by a judge when someone fails to appear in court for a mandatory hearing. Once the warrant is active, law enforcement has the authority to arrest you at any time. If you have an outstanding bench warrant in Downey, it is crucial to seek legal help. At My Rights Law, we can represent you, addressing the matter before it escalates further, potentially preventing arrest and resolving the issue.

A bench warrant in Downey does not have an expiration date. Once issued, it remains in effect indefinitely until it is resolved. The courts do not allow individuals to “wait out” a bench warrant. Ignoring it can lead to more severe legal consequences. Whether it’s been days or years since the warrant was issued, it will remain on your record until you address it with the court. Seeking prompt legal advice from My Rights Law is the best way to manage the situation.

If you have a bench warrant issued for your arrest in Downey, it’s critical to act immediately. Contacting a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer from My Rights Law can help you navigate the legal system and potentially have the warrant quashed before you are arrested. We can assist in negotiating with the court, resolving the matter in a way that minimizes legal consequences and prevents further escalation.

An arrest warrant authorizes law enforcement to take you into custody for a suspected crime. In Downey, arrest warrants are typically issued after law enforcement investigates a crime and identifies a suspect. Unlike a bench warrant, which is procedural, an arrest warrant is tied to criminal charges. The judge issues the warrant based on probable cause, usually following a police investigation or, in some cases, after a grand jury indictment. Once issued, police have the authority to arrest you at any time.

Failure to appear is a criminal offense under California Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. Whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony depends on the type of charges you were facing when you missed court. If you were released on your own recognizance and missed a court appearance, it may be charged as a misdemeanor. However, if you were out on bail for a felony charge and willfully failed to appear, the offense becomes a felony. In either case, missing a court date without valid reason leads to severe consequences, so always consult an attorney for assistance.

In Downey, failure to appear carries serious penalties. For missing a court date for a misdemeanor, you may face up to six months in county jail and a fine. If you fail to appear for a felony, the penalties increase to a potential three-year sentence in jail or prison. These penalties are in addition to any consequences you may face for the original charges. Whether you missed court for an arraignment, trial, or sentencing, it’s essential to seek legal advice from My Rights Law to fully understand your situation and the legal consequences.