Professional Warrant Attorney in Venice

In Venice, bench warrants are more commonly encountered than arrest warrants. A bench warrant is issued by a judge when an individual fails to comply with court orders, such as missing a scheduled court appearance. Unlike arrest warrants, which are based on suspected criminal activity, bench warrants are administrative tools used to enforce compliance with the court’s directives.

A bench warrant in Venice is initiated by a judge when someone does not appear in court as required. Once issued, this warrant allows law enforcement to arrest the individual and bring them before the court to address the missed appearance. If you find yourself facing a bench warrant in Los Angeles County, enlisting the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney can be crucial in resolving the matter effectively.

Bench warrants in Venice have no expiration date. They remain active indefinitely until addressed in court. This means that regardless of how much time passes, a bench warrant will continue to be part of your record until it is resolved. This is crucial to understand, as it underscores the importance of taking action to clear any outstanding warrants instead of hoping they will disappear.

Addressing a bench warrant promptly is essential to prevent an unexpected arrest. The first step is to consult with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney, like those at My Rights Law. With their guidance, you can navigate the legal complexities involved, and potentially have the warrant quashed or resolved without further legal complications.

An arrest warrant is a legal document issued by a judge that authorizes law enforcement to arrest an individual suspected of a crime. In Venice, these warrants are typically issued following a thorough investigation where probable cause has been established. An arrest warrant must include specific details, such as the suspect’s name, the alleged crime, and the judge’s signature. It’s crucial to note that police cannot arrest you without a warrant unless they witness a crime in progress.

Failure to appear is considered a criminal offense under California law, specifically under Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. This applies to individuals who either miss a court date after being released on their own recognizance or who fail to appear while out on bail for a felony charge. The nature of the offense—misdemeanor or felony—depends on the original charges that necessitated the court appearance.

In Venice, the repercussions for failing to appear in court can be severe. Penalties may include:

Up to six months in county jail and substantial fines.
A potential one to three-year prison sentence, depending on the circumstances. These penalties are in addition to any consequences tied to the original offense, highlighting the importance of maintaining compliance with court orders. Consulting with a qualified criminal defense attorney can provide insight into the specific penalties you might face.