Professional Warrant Attorney in San Bernardino

In San Bernardino, bench warrants are commonly issued when someone fails to comply with a court order, such as not attending a scheduled court hearing. This type of warrant is named after the “bench” where the judge presides, and it differs from an arrest warrant, which is issued based on suspected criminal activity. Bench warrants aren’t issued for criminal behavior but for procedural reasons, such as missing a court date.

A bench warrant in San Bernardino is issued by a judge if you fail to appear for a court hearing or don’t comply with a court order. Once a bench warrant is issued, law enforcement officers have the authority to arrest you and bring you before the court. If you’re facing a bench warrant, a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney from My Rights Law can help you resolve the issue without an immediate arrest.

Bench warrants in San Bernardino do not expire. They remain active until resolved through a court appearance or legal action. Waiting for a bench warrant to “disappear” is not an option. These warrants are issued with the intent to ensure compliance with court orders, so it’s crucial to take care of them promptly, or you risk being arrested at any time.

If you have a bench warrant in San Bernardino, it’s important to act quickly to avoid arrest. A bench warrant authorizes law enforcement to take you into custody. Your best course of action is to consult with a qualified San Bernardino criminal defense attorney, like those at My Rights Law, who can guide you through the legal process and work to resolve or quash the warrant, minimizing potential consequences.

An arrest warrant grants law enforcement the legal authority to take you into custody, typically because you’re suspected of committing a crime. In San Bernardino, police officers may request an arrest warrant from a judge after investigating a crime and identifying a suspect. This warrant must include specific information, such as the suspect’s name, the alleged crime, and the issuing judge’s signature. Arrest warrants are issued based on probable cause, ensuring the legal process is followed properly.

Under California law, failing to appear in court is a criminal offense, governed by Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. If you were released on your own recognizance or bail and deliberately missed your court date, you could face additional criminal charges. The nature of these charges—whether misdemeanor or felony—depends on the seriousness of the original offense. Missing a misdemeanor court date results in a misdemeanor charge, while failing to appear for a felony case can lead to felony charges.

In San Bernardino, failing to appear in court can lead to harsh penalties, including:
– Up to six months in county jail and a fine for missing a misdemeanor court date.
– For missing a felony court appearance, you could face one to three years in prison, in addition to penalties for your original charges.
If you are out on bail and fail to appear, a felony charge may be added under Penal Code 1320.5. It’s essential to consult with a criminal defense attorney to fully understand the consequences and navigate your legal options.