Finding out there is a warrant for your arrest in California can be a stressful revelation to say the least. However, before you start panicking, you should know that a bench warrant and arrest warrant are not the same.
Depending on your criminal history, you may have a criminal warrant out for your arrest. If you fail to pay a fine or appear before a judge regarding another matter, you may be issued a bench warrant.
Regardless of the type of warrant you think may be issued; you must contact a skilled Monterey criminal defense lawyer. Your attorney can assess your case, find out exactly what is going on, and guide you through the necessary legal steps that lie ahead.
What is an arrest warrant in California?
Police may arrest you with or without a warrant. If you get arrested without a warrant, chances are police observed you committing a crime — driving drunk, public intoxication, buying drugs, etc. If police suspect you of committing a crime outside the presence of law enforcement, they make seek a warrant for your arrest. Ultimately, after reviewing evidence, a judge will determine if a warrant for your arrested should be issued.
Bench warrant
Bench warrants are typically issued when people violate the rules set by the court. In most cases, this means a person failed to show up to a court date. If a judge issues a bench warrant to have you brought before them, you must take the matter seriously. Remember, police have the right to detain you and bring you before the judge who issued the warrant.
Steps to take
If you think there may be a bench or arrest warrant out for you, follow these steps:
- Verify online — Today, you can do almost anything online, including verify whether you have an outstanding warrant. First, determine the county where you want to search if you have a warrant. Next, visit the Sheriff’s department website for that county and browse for warrant information. You can also use a third-party online service.
- Get a lawyer — If you determine that there is a warrant out for you, you must contact a lawyer. Your attorney will advise you on what to do next, protect your rights, and help you navigate through the legal system.
With your lawyer’s help you can contact law enforcement and arrange a time to turn yourself in. This will show the court that you are a responsible person who is willing to cooperate with the legal process.
Criminal defense attorney defending clients throughout
Giuliano Law is dedicated to defending clients throughout Hollister, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito counties. For more information about our services or to discuss your case with an experienced defense lawyer, call (831) 257-8685 or contact us online.
Can California Police Arrest Me Without A Warrant?
Most people are familiar with basic legal and criminal procedures because of the media. However, what you see and hear on TV is not always the same as what is happening in the real world. Think police need a warrant to arrest you? Think again. Just because you may have seen every episode of Law & Order does not mean you are prepared to represent yourself in a defense case.
If you are arrested in California, whether police have a warrant or not, you must seek experienced legal help. A criminal defense lawyer can quickly review your case and the circumstances of your arrest, and help ensure your rights are protected.
Arrest without a warrant
Police do not need a warrant if they observe you committing a crime. For example, if police stop you for swerving your car, and detect alcohol on your breath, they may arrest you for drunk driving. Also, according to PART 2. OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE [681 – 1620], a police officer may arrest someone if they have probable cause that the person committed a felony. This means that law enforcement must believe that you have committed or are about to commit an indictable offence.
Arrest with a warrant
If a police officer has reasonable grounds to believe you have committed a crime, they can request that a judge authorize a warrant for your arrest. In California, a warrant gives police the authority to arrest or detain you if they suspect you of committing a crime outside of their presence. Typically, judges issue warrants for two reasons: they receive evidence from a peace officer and/or a District Attorney or because of a grand jury indictment.
What are Miranda rights?
Whether police arrest you with or without a warrant, you must be Mirandized. In fact, if police fail to read you your rights before you are arrested, your arrest may be unlawful. Your Miranda rights are: You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.
Contact a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer
No matter if you are arrested for a DUI on the road, or served a warrant at your workplace, you need skilled criminal defense counsel. At Giuliano Law Firm, our experienced team of attorneys works tirelessly to help you build a solid defense. Call (831) 257-8692 or contact us online to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer today.
