Professional Warrant Attorney in Santa Monica

In Santa Monica, the distinction between a bench warrant and an arrest warrant is crucial. A bench warrant is typically issued when an individual fails to appear for a court date or comply with a court order, rather than due to suspicion of criminal activity. It is named after the judge (or “bench”) who issues it. On the other hand, an arrest warrant is issued when law enforcement has probable cause to believe someone has committed a crime. Understanding this difference is essential for anyone navigating the complexities of the legal system.

A bench warrant operates as a court order mandating law enforcement to arrest an individual who has failed to appear for a scheduled court hearing in Santa Monica. If you discover that a bench warrant has been issued in your name, it is advisable to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to address the situation promptly. Once a bench warrant is active, police have the authority to arrest you at any time, which underscores the importance of taking swift action.

In Santa Monica, bench warrants are indefinite and do not expire. They remain active on your record until you take the necessary steps to resolve the warrant. This lack of expiration is critical to understand, as individuals cannot simply wait out the warrant; it will stay on record and could lead to future complications, including unexpected arrests or legal actions. Thus, it is imperative to seek legal counsel to navigate the resolution process effectively.

Addressing a bench warrant should be a top priority to avoid the risk of arrest. The best course of action is to consult with a reputable criminal defense lawyer, such as those at My Rights Law. They can provide the guidance needed to address the bench warrant and may assist in quashing it, potentially preventing any immediate arrest. Taking proactive measures is essential for protecting your rights and minimizing the impact of the warrant on your life.

Arrest warrants grant law enforcement the authority to apprehend individuals suspected of committing crimes. In Santa Monica, arrest warrants are typically issued after an investigation has identified a suspect and established probable cause. The warrant will include crucial details such as the suspect’s name, the alleged crime, and the judge’s signature. It’s important to understand that police cannot arrest you without a warrant unless they witness a crime taking place. Therefore, knowing your rights and the nature of any warrants against you is vital.

Failure to appear is a serious offense in California, outlined in Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. This charge applies if you were required to appear in court and did not do so, either after being released on your own recognizance or while out on bail. The consequences depend on the nature of the original charges: failing to appear for a misdemeanor will typically result in a misdemeanor charge, whereas a failure to appear for a felony can escalate to a felony offense. Understanding these implications is essential for anyone involved in the legal system.

In Santa Monica, the consequences for failing to appear in court can be quite severe, including:

Up to six months in county jail and a fine.
A potential one to three-year sentence in jail or prison.
These penalties are in addition to any repercussions related to the original offense. Notably, if you are out on bail and fail to appear, you may face even harsher charges under California law. It’s crucial to engage with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney to fully comprehend the risks and develop a strategy to mitigate the penalties you may face.