Professional Warrant Attorney in Menifee

Bench warrants are common in Menifee and serve a different purpose than arrest warrants. While arrest warrants are issued when law enforcement has probable cause to believe someone committed a crime, bench warrants are issued by a judge when someone fails to appear in court or comply with a court order. The term “bench” refers to the judge’s seat, indicating that the warrant comes directly from the court, not from a police investigation.

In Menifee, a bench warrant is issued by a judge if you fail to appear for a scheduled court date. Once the warrant is active, law enforcement has the authority to arrest you and bring you before the court. It’s essential to take immediate action if you are aware of a bench warrant in your name, as being arrested can result in severe consequences. A criminal defense lawyer can assist in resolving the warrant and possibly avoid an arrest.

A bench warrant in Menifee does not have an expiration date and will remain active until it is resolved. It is not something that will simply “go away” with time. If left unresolved, it will continue to appear on your record, and you could be arrested at any time. This is why it’s critical to address the issue promptly, usually with the help of a skilled attorney who can navigate the legal process on your behalf.

If you have a bench warrant issued in Menifee, it’s important to act quickly to avoid being arrested. The best course of action is to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help resolve the warrant. At My Rights Law, we work diligently to represent clients in Menifee and can often negotiate with the court to recall or quash the warrant. This can prevent an arrest and help you avoid additional penalties.

An arrest warrant is a legal document issued by a judge that allows law enforcement to take you into custody for suspicion of committing a crime. In Menifee, an arrest warrant is usually issued after a police investigation has identified you as a suspect, and law enforcement presents evidence to a judge. The warrant must include specific details, such as the suspect’s name, the alleged crime, and the judge’s signature, to be valid. Once the warrant is issued, the police can arrest you and bring you to court.

Failure to appear in court, according to California Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5, is a serious criminal offense in Menifee. If you were released on your own recognizance and willfully failed to show up for your court date, it is a misdemeanor under Penal Code 1320. However, if you were out on bail for a felony charge and failed to appear, the charge escalates to a felony under Penal Code 1320.5. The consequences depend on the severity of the underlying offense, making it crucial to handle the situation with legal assistance.

The penalties for failing to appear in court in Menifee can be severe. If you fail to appear for a misdemeanor, you may face up to six months in county jail and a fine. For felony charges, failing to appear can result in one to three years in prison. These penalties are in addition to any consequences related to the original charge for which you missed court. It’s important to contact a defense attorney to understand the full scope of the penalties and work toward a resolution.