Professional Warrant Attorney in Lake Forest

In Lake Forest, bench warrants are frequently issued for reasons different from standard arrest warrants. A bench warrant is generally issued by a judge when someone fails to appear for a scheduled court hearing or does not follow through with a court order. Unlike an arrest warrant, which is issued based on suspected criminal activity, a bench warrant is tied to court proceedings and non-compliance with judicial requirements.

When a bench warrant is issued in Lake Forest, it grants law enforcement the authority to arrest you if you’ve missed a court date or failed to comply with a court order. While the warrant is active, police can arrest you at any time, and you will be brought before a judge. A criminal defense attorney, like those at My Rights Law, can help resolve the warrant before it leads to an arrest, often by advocating on your behalf in court.

In Lake Forest, bench warrants do not expire. They remain in effect indefinitely until you or your attorney takes action to resolve the matter. This means that, regardless of how much time has passed, the warrant will stay active, allowing law enforcement to arrest you if the opportunity arises. If left unresolved, the consequences of a bench warrant could worsen over time, which is why it’s critical to address it promptly.

If a bench warrant has been issued for you in Lake Forest, it is vital to act immediately. Ignoring the warrant can result in your arrest, often at the most inconvenient time. By consulting with a seasoned criminal defense attorney at My Rights Law, you can have the warrant quashed or recalled. This legal process requires skilled representation to navigate the court system and resolve the issue without unnecessary complications.

An arrest warrant allows law enforcement in Lake Forest to detain you for suspected criminal activity. Unlike a bench warrant, which is usually related to non-compliance with court proceedings, an arrest warrant is issued after law enforcement has gathered enough evidence to show probable cause that you have committed a crime. The arrest warrant will include your name, the charges against you, and the judge’s authorization for law enforcement to take you into custody.

Failure to appear is a serious offense in California, governed by Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5, depending on whether you were released on your own recognizance or on bail. In Lake Forest, if you fail to show up for a scheduled court date, you could face criminal charges for this failure, on top of any penalties from the original offense. Missing a court date for a misdemeanor leads to a misdemeanor charge, while failing to appear for a felony results in a felony charge.

In Lake Forest, the consequences for failing to appear in court can be severe. Depending on the circumstances, penalties include:

Up to six months in county jail and a significant fine for a misdemeanor.
One to three years in jail or prison for a felony. These penalties are imposed in addition to any consequences related to the original charges. It is crucial to handle the situation carefully and with the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney to minimize these penalties.