Legal Question in Criminal Law in Kentucky

Re: Bench Warrents

Bench warrants are tricky things. The court issues them when it thinks you have ignored a previous order to come to court. Some/most judges take them pretty seriously.

Without knowing more about the facts, it is difficult to say what the chances are that you would be taken into custody if you show up on your own (without counsel). On the one hand, you showed up; on the other, you didn't show up before.

Your reason for not showing up the first time, and your ability to calmly, objectively, and persuasively explain all that to the judge will be critical in determining your fate.

The seriousness of the underlying charge will matter as well: FTA on a speeding ticket is not as serious as FTA on a felony charge.

Good luck!

Re: Bench Warrents

You can go down to the clerks office and redocket the case yourself, but there is always the chance you will be arrested on the warrant. It is better to have an attorney to do it for you. The attorney will also be able to advise you as to the probablility of whether or not you will be taken into custody on the bench warrant when you reappear in court.