Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Bench Warrant

What is a bench warrant and how can I get rid of it?


Asked on 2/23/09, 6:09 am

3 Answers from Attorneys

Steven Mandell Law Offices of Steven R. Mandell

Re: Bench Warrant

A bench warrant is a warrant that is issued by a judge, usually because of your failure to appear when ordered to do so, or because of not doing something you were ordered to do. It can be removed either by going to the court and "surrendering" on the warrant, or sometimes by having a lawyer make the appearance for you. There are various reasons why one option may be better than another. It is possible that you will be put in jail if you surrender. A lawyer can check all that out for you and advise you of the safest and best way to handle it. By the way, bench warrants don't ever just expire. They stay "on the books' until you take care of it. If you'd like to talk about this further, please don't hesitate to contact me. Steve Mandell

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Answered on 2/23/09, 10:01 am
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Bench Warrant

You can 'deal' properly with an arrest warrant by going to that court, submitting to their authority, and handling the case against you. Usually, people hire attorneys to represent and help them. Feel free to contact me if serious about doing so.

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Answered on 2/23/09, 2:58 pm
Jacek W. Lentz Law Offices of Jacek W. Lentz

Re: Bench Warrant

A bench warrant means you had a court date some time ago when you were obligated to show up and you did not. Warrants never expire, unfortunately, and sooner or later you will need to deal with yours. Most commonly perhaps, people get arrested and dragged to jail on outstanding warrants when, for example, they get pulled over on a simple traffic violation.

I cannot over-emphasize to you how important it is that you deal with the problem soon and proactively, meaning you do not wait until you get arrested and taken to jail. Depending upon your own individual situation, the difference could mean no damage or jail vs. a lengthy jail sentence just for the sole fact of having missed your court date. A lawyer could be extremely helpful in your situation, if not indispensable. A lawyer might be able to resolve the whole situation without your being in court at all.

Feel free to contact my office for a non-binding consultation.

Jacek w. Lentz, Esq.

310.273.1361

www.lentzlawfirm.com

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Answered on 2/23/09, 4:45 pm


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