Professional Warrant Attorney in Rancho Cucamonga

In Rancho Cucamonga, bench warrants are often confused with arrest warrants, but they serve a distinct purpose. While an arrest warrant is typically issued for criminal activity, a bench warrant is issued by a judge when someone fails to meet court obligations, such as missing a scheduled court appearance. The term “bench” refers to the judge’s seat in the courtroom, symbolizing that the warrant comes from the court itself, not from law enforcement or a criminal investigation.

When a judge issues a bench warrant in Rancho Cucamonga, it’s typically because an individual failed to appear in court or comply with a court order. This warrant authorizes law enforcement to arrest the individual and bring them before the court. If you have a bench warrant, you may be arrested at any time, whether during a routine traffic stop or at your home. It is critical to address the warrant quickly, and consulting a criminal defense attorney can help you resolve it before an arrest occurs.

A bench warrant in Rancho Cucamonga does not expire or go away with time. Once issued, it remains active until you take action to resolve it. If left unaddressed, it could lead to an unexpected arrest at any moment, often causing further legal complications. Ignoring a bench warrant won’t make it disappear—it will only increase the severity of the situation. The warrant stays on your record until you resolve it, typically by appearing before a judge.

Dealing with a bench warrant in Rancho Cucamonga requires immediate action. Ignoring it can lead to your arrest at the least convenient times, including during routine activities. The best approach is to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney, like those at My Rights Law. We can assist in arranging a court appearance on your behalf and may be able to have the warrant quashed or recalled, helping you avoid arrest and minimize potential penalties.

An arrest warrant allows law enforcement in Rancho Cucamonga to take you into custody legally. This warrant is issued based on probable cause that you have committed a crime, unlike a bench warrant, which is issued for failure to comply with court procedures. The process typically involves a judge reviewing evidence presented by law enforcement or prosecutors. If the judge finds probable cause, an arrest warrant is issued. The warrant contains specific information, including your name, the alleged crime, and the judge’s signature, giving officers the authority to arrest you.

Failure to appear in court in Rancho Cucamonga is a serious offense under California Penal Code sections 1320 and 1320.5. This crime occurs when an individual knowingly misses a scheduled court date after being released on bail or their own recognizance. If the original charge was a misdemeanor, failure to appear is classified as a misdemeanor. However, if you were scheduled to appear for a felony charge and failed to do so, it becomes a felony offense, increasing the severity of potential penalties.

In Rancho Cucamonga, failing to appear in court can result in harsh penalties. If the original charge was a misdemeanor, you may face up to six months in county jail and fines. For felony charges, failing to appear can result in a prison sentence ranging from one to three years. These penalties are in addition to any consequences from the original charges you were facing. If you have missed a court date, it is crucial to consult with a criminal defense lawyer immediately to help minimize these consequences.