Professional Warrant Attorney in Laguna Niguel

Bench warrants and arrest warrants serve different purposes in Laguna Niguel. A bench warrant is typically issued when a person fails to appear in court or comply with a court order, while an arrest warrant is issued when law enforcement believes there is probable cause that a crime has been committed. A bench warrant is not based on criminal activity but rather on failure to follow court procedures, such as missing a court date or not paying fines.

In Laguna Niguel, a bench warrant is issued by a judge when someone fails to appear in court as required. Once issued, law enforcement has the legal right to arrest you and bring you before the court. Even if you have not committed a crime, failing to meet your legal obligations can lead to serious consequences. Having a qualified criminal defense attorney on your side can help you address the warrant before it leads to an arrest.

Bench warrants do not expire in Laguna Niguel. Once a bench warrant is issued, it stays in effect until you resolve it. This means that whether it’s a week, a month, or several years, the warrant remains active. It is crucial to address any outstanding bench warrants as soon as possible to avoid sudden arrest and further complications. Ignoring a bench warrant can result in severe penalties, including fines and possible jail time.

If you have a bench warrant issued for your arrest in Laguna Niguel, immediate action is necessary. It’s important to seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can navigate the legal system on your behalf. At My Rights Law, we can work to have the warrant quashed or negotiate with the court to avoid arrest. Addressing the warrant quickly can prevent potential jail time and minimize the impact on your future.

An arrest warrant allows law enforcement to take you into custody based on suspected criminal activity. In Laguna Niguel, an arrest warrant is issued when a judge determines there is probable cause to believe you committed a crime. This warrant contains details such as your name, the crime you are accused of, and the judge’s signature. Unlike a bench warrant, an arrest warrant is directly related to suspected criminal behavior and requires law enforcement to take immediate action to bring you into custody.

Failure to appear in court is a serious offense under California law, including Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. If you were released on your own recognizance or posted bail and you do not appear in court as scheduled, you could be charged with failure to appear. Depending on the charges against you, this can be either a misdemeanor or a felony. This is why it’s critical to take court obligations seriously and seek legal representation if you are unable to attend a scheduled court date.

The penalties for failing to appear in Laguna Niguel can be severe. If you miss a court appearance for a misdemeanor charge, you could face up to six months in county jail and a fine. For felony charges, the penalties increase, with possible sentences of one to three years in prison. These penalties are separate from any punishment for the underlying charge. Additionally, failure to appear can result in a felony charge under Penal Code 1320.5 if you were out on bail for a felony offense. Consulting with a criminal defense attorney is essential to mitigate these consequences.