Professional Warrant Attorney in Redondo Beach

In Redondo Beach, bench warrants are issued more frequently than arrest warrants, typically arising when someone fails to follow a court order, like missing a scheduled court appearance. Unlike arrest warrants, which are based on suspected criminal activity, bench warrants are linked to court non-compliance and are named after the “bench,” referring to the judge who issues them. They do not imply guilt of a crime, but they still give law enforcement the authority to take action.

A bench warrant in Redondo Beach is a court order issued by a judge when an individual fails to attend a required court hearing. If this happens, law enforcement has the legal right to arrest the person and bring them before the court. Having a bench warrant does not mean you’re being accused of committing a new crime, but it does mean you could be arrested at any time. It is critical to consult a qualified defense attorney to resolve the warrant as soon as possible and avoid the stress of an unexpected arrest.

A bench warrant issued in Redondo Beach remains active indefinitely. It doesn’t expire over time and will continue to appear on your record until you take steps to resolve it. Ignoring a bench warrant can lead to more severe consequences, including arrest at an unexpected time. The best course of action is to consult with an experienced attorney to address and potentially quash the warrant, helping you avoid further legal trouble.

If you have a bench warrant issued for your arrest in Redondo Beach, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent arrest. You should immediately seek legal representation from a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer, such as My Rights Law. An attorney can guide you through the legal process, potentially quashing the warrant or arranging for a court appearance without the need for arrest. This approach can help you minimize disruptions to your life while resolving the legal issue efficiently.

An arrest warrant grants law enforcement the legal authority to take you into custody. Arrest warrants are usually issued when someone is suspected of committing a crime, often following an investigation. Unlike a bench warrant, which deals with court non-compliance, an arrest warrant relates directly to criminal activity. The warrant includes detailed information such as your name, the crime you’re suspected of, and the judge’s signature. In Redondo Beach, police typically need this type of warrant unless the crime is committed in their presence.

Failure to appear occurs when you do not show up for a scheduled court hearing, which is considered a criminal offense under California Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. If you were released on your own recognizance and fail to appear, it’s a misdemeanor. However, if you were out on bail for a felony charge, it becomes a felony offense. Regardless of the charge, failure to appear can escalate the severity of your legal troubles, making it essential to have legal counsel to mitigate the potential consequences.

In Redondo Beach, failing to appear in court can result in serious penalties, including:

Up to six months in county jail and a fine for misdemeanor charges.
A one to three-year sentence in jail or prison for felony charges.
These penalties are in addition to any consequences tied to the original offense. If you deliberately skip court while out on bail, you may face further charges under California Penal Code 1320.5. Legal representation is crucial to fully understanding and navigating the potential outcomes.