Professional Warrant Attorney in Santa Ana

In Santa Ana, bench warrants and arrest warrants serve different purposes. A bench warrant is issued when an individual fails to comply with a court order or does not show up for a scheduled court hearing. It’s called a “bench” warrant because it originates from the judge’s bench. Unlike an arrest warrant, which is based on suspected criminal activity, a bench warrant does not imply a new crime has been committed. Instead, it focuses on ensuring the individual appears in court or fulfills a legal obligation.

A bench warrant in Santa Ana allows law enforcement to arrest you if you fail to appear for a court hearing. Once a judge issues this warrant, officers have the right to take you into custody and bring you before the court. A criminal defense attorney from My Rights Law can work to resolve the issue, potentially avoiding your arrest by representing you in court and handling the situation properly.

Bench warrants in Santa Ana remain active indefinitely. They do not expire or go away with time. The warrant stays on your record until you address it in court. Some people may think they can avoid legal consequences by ignoring a bench warrant, but this is not the case. The warrant continues to be enforceable, and law enforcement can arrest you at any time. Resolving a bench warrant quickly with the help of a skilled criminal defense lawyer is crucial to avoid further legal complications.

If you have a bench warrant issued for your arrest in Santa Ana, immediate action is essential. Ignoring the warrant can lead to your arrest at any moment. To quash or resolve a bench warrant, it’s advisable to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney like My Rights Law. We can represent you in court, navigate the legal process, and potentially resolve the warrant before an arrest occurs. Acting swiftly with the right legal help can prevent unnecessary consequences.

An arrest warrant in Santa Ana gives law enforcement the legal authority to arrest you and take you into custody. Typically, an arrest warrant is issued after a criminal investigation where evidence suggests probable cause that you are involved in a crime. The warrant includes essential details, such as the suspect’s name, the alleged crime, and the judge’s signature. Unlike a bench warrant, an arrest warrant is directly tied to alleged criminal activity. To defend your rights and challenge the legality of the warrant, it’s essential to seek counsel from a defense attorney.

Failure to appear (FTA) in Santa Ana is a criminal offense under California Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. If you are released on your own recognizance and fail to appear for a court date, you may face additional charges. Whether your failure to appear is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depends on the severity of the original charge. Failing to appear for a misdemeanor could result in a misdemeanor FTA charge, while skipping a court date for a felony could elevate your FTA to a felony charge. Always consult with an attorney to ensure compliance with your court obligations.

The consequences of failing to appear in court in Santa Ana are serious and can result in additional penalties. For misdemeanor offenses, you may face up to six months in county jail and fines. For felony offenses, you could receive one to three years in prison. These penalties are separate from any punishment related to your original charge. Additionally, if you are out on bail and fail to appear, you could face a felony charge under Penal Code 1320.5. It’s vital to consult with a criminal defense attorney to understand your legal options and mitigate the consequences.