What to Do If You Have a Warrant for Your Arrest
What to Do If You Have a Warrant for Your Arrest
An arrest warrant is a court order that authorizes law enforcement to take you into custody. It is usually issued after a prosecutor reviews a police report and decides there is enough evidence to charge you with a crime. The warrant request is submitted by a police officer under oath, and then a judge or magistrate approves it.
The purpose of an arrest warrant is simple: to bring you before the court so you can answer to the charges filed against you.
Types of Warrants and How They Work
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Arrest Warrant: Police may come directly to your home, work, or another location to arrest you.
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Bench Warrant: More common than an arrest warrant. With a bench warrant, police won’t actively search for you, but if you have any contact with law enforcement—such as a traffic stop—you will likely be arrested.
This can be particularly inconvenient if you are arrested on a Friday night or weekend, because you may be held in a jail cell until a judge is available, which could mean waiting hours or even days.
What Happens After Arrest
Once arrested, you will be taken to court for an arraignment. At this hearing:
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The judge officially removes the outstanding warrant.
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Your criminal case formally begins.
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A bond (bail) is typically set, which is a financial promise that you’ll return to court.
Depending on the charges, your case will then move to either a pretrial conference or a probable cause conference.
The Best Way to Handle a Warrant
If you know there is a warrant out for your arrest, the smartest step you can take is to hire a criminal defense lawyer and go to court voluntarily. Doing so shows responsibility and can greatly improve your chances of receiving a favorable bond.
By appearing on your own—rather than being brought in handcuffs—you demonstrate to the court that you are not a flight risk and that you plan to fight the charges. Having an attorney by your side further strengthens your position and helps protect your rights from the very beginning.
Boria Law – Criminal Defense Attorney is here to help navigate the process with you. Call (734) 453-7806 today for a consultation and to schedule your warrant removal with the court.
