Professional Warrant Attorney in Santa Clarita

A bench warrant and an arrest warrant serve different purposes in Santa Clarita. A bench warrant is typically issued when someone fails to appear for a scheduled court date or does not comply with a court order. The term “bench” refers to the judge’s seat, indicating the authority issuing the warrant. In contrast, an arrest warrant is issued when law enforcement has probable cause to believe a crime has been committed and the individual is a suspect. While both types of warrants lead to an arrest, their origins and implications differ significantly.

When a bench warrant is issued in Santa Clarita, it empowers law enforcement to arrest you for failing to attend court. Once the warrant is active, police can detain you and bring you before the court. It’s essential to take immediate action if a bench warrant has been issued against you. Retaining a skilled criminal defense attorney can help you address the warrant and potentially avoid arrest while you work through the legal process.

In Santa Clarita, bench warrants do not have an expiration date. They remain active until they are addressed and resolved in court. This means that, regardless of how much time passes, the warrant will continue to affect your legal status and may lead to your arrest at any moment. Ignoring the warrant will not make it disappear; proactive legal intervention is crucial for resolving the issue effectively.

If you discover you have a bench warrant issued for your arrest, it is imperative to act quickly. The first step is to seek legal counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney, like those at My Rights Law. They can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and work to quash the warrant, thereby preventing an arrest and minimizing the potential consequences you may face.

An arrest warrant is a legal document that authorizes law enforcement to take you into custody. It is typically issued based on evidence and probable cause presented by police officers or prosecutors. The warrant must contain specific information, including the suspect’s name, the alleged crime, and details regarding its issuance. In Santa Clarita, an arrest warrant may follow an investigation or the issuance of a bench warrant for failure to appear in court.

Failure to appear in court is a serious offense, defined under California Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. The relevant code depends on whether you were released on your own recognizance or were out on bail. If you willfully fail to appear for your court date, you may be charged with a crime, which could escalate in severity based on the nature of the original charge. This highlights the importance of attending all required court appearances.

In Santa Clarita, the consequences of failing to appear can be quite severe, including:

Up to six months in county jail, along with a potential fine.
A sentence ranging from one to three years in jail or prison for more serious offenses.
These penalties can be imposed in addition to any consequences stemming from the original charges, making it essential to seek legal assistance to mitigate the impact of a failure to appear.