Warrants – Everything You Need to Know

Warrants are powerful legal instruments that can significantly impact a person’s freedom and well-being. Understanding what warrants are and their different forms is crucial, as they can lead to severe consequences if not addressed promptly.

If you suspect there is a warrant out for your arrest, it is essential to take timely action and seek legal help. The Defenders is a criminal defense firm in Las Vegas. Our attorneys have extensive experience dealing with warrants and can provide you with the necessary legal representation.

Contact our office today for a free consultation.

Definition: What Is a Warrant

A warrant is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate that authorizes law enforcement officers to take certain actions, such as making an arrest or conducting a search. Warrants are used to uphold the rule of law and protect citizens’ rights by ensuring that police powers are not abused.

Types of Warrants

There are three main types of warrants: arrest, bench, and search warrants.

Arrest Warrant

An arrest warrant is court-issued document authorizing law enforcement to detain and bring in an individual suspected of committing a crime. For example, if a person is caught on camera breaking into a store and stealing merchandise, law enforcement may obtain an arrest warrant for that individual based on the evidence.

Once an arrest warrant is issued, it gives police the legal authority to search for and apprehend the suspect. This means they can enter private property, such as a home or vehicle, without the owner’s permission in order to make the arrest. The purpose of an arrest warrant is to protect individuals from being arbitrarily arrested without sufficient evidence or reason.

When an individual is arrested under an arrest warrant, they must be brought before a judge within a reasonable amount of time to determine if there is enough evidence to hold them for trial. If not, they will be released. However, if there is sufficient evidence

Bench Warrant

A bench warrant is a court order authorizing the immediate arrest of an individual who has failed to appear in court for a scheduled hearing or trial. If you have a bench warrant, it is crucial to seek legal help as soon as possible, as it can result in jail time.

Bench warrant hearing

A bench warrant hearing is held in court to request the judge to cancel the warrant issued against you. Depending on how severe the initial charge was, the judge may dismiss or continue with your case.

Jail time for bench warrant

The amount of jail time will depend on various factors, such as the severity of the original charge and any previous criminal history. It is crucial to seek legal help if you have a bench warrant to avoid facing potential jail time.

Search Warrant

A search warrant gives law enforcement officers permission to enter and search a specific location for evidence related to a suspected crime. It must be issued by a judge based on probable cause that evidence of a crime can be found at the specified location.

Can You Just Pay Off a Warrant?

No, paying off a warrant is not an option. A warrant means you have been charged with a crime or failed to comply with a court order. The only way to resolve a warrant is through legal proceedings in court.

This means appearing in court to address the warrant or hiring a lawyer to represent you. The other option is to quash or cancel the warrant by showing evidence that it was issued in error.

Difference Between a Warrant and Summons

A summons is issued when someone has been accused of a crime, but they have not yet been arrested. It requires them to appear in court on a certain date and time.

A warrant, on the other hand, authorizes law enforcement officers to take specific actions such as making an arrest or conducting a search.

How To Know If You Have A Warrant Under Your Name

If you suspect there may be a warrant for your arrest or failure to comply with a court order, it is essential to confirm this information. There are several ways you can check for warrants under your name:

Contact the court where you have pending charges or issued a bench warrant
Check online databases for warrants in your state or county
Hire a lawyer to conduct a thorough search on your behalf

How A Lawyer Can Help

Facing a warrant can be frightening and overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help by:

Conducting a thorough investigation into the warrant and the circumstances surrounding it
Representing you in court and advocating for your rights
Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties
Working towards getting the warrant quashed

Have A Warrant Under Your Name? Hire The Defenders

Dealing with a warrant can be complicated and stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our team at The Defenders has the knowledge and experience to handle any warrant-related legal matter. Let us help you protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.