Professional Warrant Attorney in Laguna Beach

A bench warrant in Laguna Beach is often issued when an individual fails to comply with court orders, such as attending a scheduled court hearing. It differs from an arrest warrant, which is typically issued for suspected criminal activity. Bench warrants originate from the judge’s bench, emphasizing a violation of court proceedings rather than criminal conduct.

When a bench warrant is issued in Laguna Beach, law enforcement has the authority to arrest the individual for failing to appear in court. If you have a bench warrant in your name, it’s crucial to seek immediate legal counsel. My Rights Law, a Laguna Beach criminal defense firm, can help address the warrant and represent you in court, possibly avoiding an arrest and minimizing legal consequences.

Bench warrants in Laguna Beach do not have an expiration date. Once issued, they remain active until the individual takes steps to resolve them. These warrants are serious, and simply waiting for them to “expire” is not an option. Even if you avoid arrest for years, the warrant will remain on your record until it is addressed in court.

If you have a bench warrant issued in Laguna Beach, the best course of action is to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer, such as My Rights Law, immediately. Our firm will work to resolve the warrant by appearing on your behalf in court and advocating for the warrant to be quashed. This can often prevent you from being taken into custody and reduce the severity of any penalties you might face.

An arrest warrant in Laguna Beach is a court order that gives law enforcement the authority to detain an individual suspected of committing a crime. Unlike bench warrants, arrest warrants are usually issued after an investigation into criminal activity. Police officers must demonstrate probable cause to a judge in order to obtain an arrest warrant. The warrant itself will include details like the suspect’s name, the alleged crime, and the judge’s authorization.

Failure to appear in court is a criminal offense under California Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. The specific charge depends on whether you were released on your own recognizance or on bail for a felony. Willfully failing to appear in court for a misdemeanor can lead to a misdemeanor charge, while missing a felony hearing can result in felony charges. This highlights the importance of attending every required court date, regardless of the original offense.

The penalties for failing to appear in Laguna Beach are significant. You could face up to six months in county jail for a misdemeanor or a longer sentence of one to three years for a felony failure to appear. These penalties are imposed in addition to any consequences related to the original offense. If you were out on bail for a felony and deliberately missed your court date, you may be charged under Penal Code 1320.5, which carries even more severe penalties. It’s critical to consult with a criminal defense attorney to navigate this complex legal situation.