Professional Warrant Attorney in Highland

In Highland, bench warrants are more commonly seen than arrest warrants. A bench warrant is issued by a judge when an individual fails to appear for a court hearing or does not comply with a court order. Unlike an arrest warrant, which is based on suspected criminal activity, a bench warrant signifies the court’s authority to enforce attendance and compliance.

A bench warrant in Highland is issued when you miss a scheduled court appearance. Once the warrant is in place, law enforcement can arrest you at any time. It’s crucial to address any bench warrants promptly to avoid unnecessary complications. Hiring a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer can facilitate the resolution process and help you avoid arrest.

Bench warrants in Highland remain valid indefinitely until they are resolved. They are not subject to expiration, which means that simply ignoring the warrant will not make it disappear. It’s important to understand that this warrant will remain on your record and can have serious implications for your future if left unaddressed.

If a bench warrant has been issued for your arrest, taking immediate action is essential. Contacting a reputable Highland criminal defense attorney like those at My Rights Law can help you navigate the legal process. They can assist in quashing the warrant or representing you in court to mitigate potential penalties, thus preventing an arrest.

An arrest warrant is a legal document issued by a judge that permits law enforcement to take you into custody. Typically, these warrants are issued following an investigation that establishes probable cause for your arrest. The warrant must contain specific details such as your name, the alleged crime, and the issuing judge’s information. Understanding how arrest warrants work can significantly impact your response and strategy in dealing with legal issues.

Failure to appear is considered a criminal offense under California Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. If you were released on your own recognizance and willfully failed to appear, it could be classified as a misdemeanor. However, if you were out on bail for a felony charge, this could escalate to a felony charge. This law underscores the importance of attending all required court appearances, regardless of the nature of your case.

In Highland, the penalties for failing to appear can be severe, including:

Up to six months in county jail and substantial fines.
A potential one to three-year prison sentence. These penalties apply to not appearing for any court mandated proceedings, such as arraignments, trials, or sentencing. Additionally, if you are out on bail and do not appear, you could face a felony charge under section 1320.5. Consulting with a skilled criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate these serious implications.