Professional Warrant Attorney in Whittier

In Whittier, a bench warrant and a regular arrest warrant serve different purposes. A bench warrant is typically issued by a judge when someone fails to appear for a court hearing or does not comply with a court order. It is not based on new criminal activity but rather on the individual’s obligation to the court. Regular warrants, on the other hand, are issued based on probable cause that someone has committed a crime. Essentially, bench warrants focus on court attendance, while arrest warrants address criminal behavior.

A bench warrant in Whittier is a directive from a judge ordering your arrest due to your absence from a scheduled court appearance. Once issued, law enforcement agencies can arrest you at any time and bring you before the court. It’s crucial to address this promptly; hiring a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can help you resolve the situation and potentially avoid arrest.

In Whittier, bench warrants do not expire; they remain active until addressed by the individual or revoked by the court. This means that a bench warrant can linger indefinitely, affecting your record and potentially leading to arrest anytime law enforcement encounters you. It’s imperative to consult with a legal professional to take the necessary steps to resolve the warrant and restore your peace of mind.

If you discover a bench warrant has been issued against you, acting swiftly is essential to prevent arrest. Engaging a skilled criminal defense attorney, like those at My Rights Law, can facilitate the process. Your lawyer can negotiate with the court to potentially quash the warrant, allowing you to manage the situation without facing immediate arrest. Taking proactive steps is vital for protecting your rights and freedom.

Arrest warrants provide law enforcement with the authority to take you into custody. Typically, these warrants are issued when someone is suspected of committing a crime, following an investigation where law enforcement establishes probable cause. The warrant will detail the suspect’s name, the alleged crime, and the issuing judge’s information. In cases of immediate criminal activity, officers may arrest without a warrant, but for most situations, a judge’s approval is necessary to issue an arrest warrant.

Failure to appear in court is classified as a criminal offense under California Penal Codes 1320 and 1320.5. The charge varies based on whether you were released on your own recognizance or under bail for a felony charge. Willfully failing to show up for your court date can escalate into significant legal issues, emphasizing the importance of attending all scheduled court appearances.

The consequences for failing to appear in Whittier can be quite serious. Individuals may face:

Up to six months in county jail and a monetary fine.
A potential sentence ranging from one to three years in jail or prison, especially if the failure to appear is related to a felony charge. These penalties are additional to any repercussions stemming from the original charge, underscoring the necessity of understanding the ramifications of your legal obligations.