Professional Warrant Attorney in Northridge

In Northridge, bench warrants are commonly issued when someone fails to comply with a court order, such as missing a scheduled court appearance. Unlike arrest warrants, which are typically issued for suspected criminal activity, a bench warrant is related to non-compliance with court procedures. The term “bench” refers to the judge’s position, signifying that the warrant comes directly from the court. While both warrants authorize law enforcement to take action, they arise from different circumstances.

If you fail to attend a required court date in Northridge, the judge can issue a bench warrant for your arrest. This gives law enforcement the legal right to arrest you and bring you before the court. A bench warrant remains in effect until you resolve it, meaning you could be arrested at any time. Consulting with an experienced Northridge criminal defense lawyer, like those at My Rights Law, is crucial to managing this situation and minimizing the impact of the warrant on your life.

A bench warrant in Northridge does not expire. Once issued, it remains active until the individual resolves it by appearing in court or taking legal action to address the warrant. There is no “waiting it out” with a bench warrant—whether it’s been weeks or years, it will stay on your record until addressed. Ignoring it can lead to your arrest at any time, whether you’re stopped for a minor traffic violation or involved in another legal matter.

If a bench warrant has been issued for you in Northridge, taking prompt action is essential to avoid arrest. One of the best ways to handle a bench warrant is by hiring a skilled Northridge criminal defense attorney, like those at My Rights Law. They can work to quash the warrant, which may prevent an arrest and allow you to address the underlying issue. Acting quickly can mitigate further legal consequences and help you resolve the warrant efficiently.

An arrest warrant is a legal order issued by a judge that allows police officers to arrest a suspect in connection with a crime. In Northridge, arrest warrants are typically issued after law enforcement has gathered sufficient evidence to demonstrate probable cause. This warrant includes key information such as the suspect’s name, the crime in question, and the judge’s signature. While police can arrest someone without a warrant if they witness a crime, an arrest warrant is generally required in other situations, especially after an investigation.

Failure to appear in court is a serious offense in California, governed by Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. If you are released on your own recognizance or posted bail but don’t show up for a scheduled court date, it is considered a crime. The specific charge depends on the underlying case: failure to appear for a misdemeanor leads to a misdemeanor charge, while missing court for a felony results in a felony charge. It’s crucial to take your court obligations seriously to avoid additional penalties.

In Northridge, failing to appear in court can result in severe penalties. For a misdemeanor case, you could face up to six months in county jail and fines. For a felony case, the penalties increase, with potential jail or prison time ranging from one to three years. These penalties are in addition to any consequences stemming from the original charges. If you are on bail and intentionally skip court, you may also face a separate felony charge under Penal Code 1320.5. Consulting a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney is crucial to avoid or mitigate these penalties.